UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

xQUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019
  
or
  
oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 For the transition period from __________ to __________

Commission File Number:  0-49677

WEST BANCORPORATION, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

IOWA42-1230603
(State of Incorporation)(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 1601 22nd Street, West Des Moines, Iowa50266 
 (Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code) 

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:  (515) 222-2300

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Yes  x                      No  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).

Yes  x                      No  o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filero    
Accelerated filerx    
Non-accelerated filero(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting companyox    
Emerging growth companyo    

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o



Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes  o                      No  x


As of July 25, 2018,April 24, 2019, there were 16,295,49416,357,752 shares of common stock, no par value, outstanding.



WEST BANCORPORATION, INC.
INDEX
  Page
PART I. 
   
Item 1.
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
Item 2.
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
Item 3.
   
Item 4.
   
PART II. 
   
Item 1.
   
Item 1A.
   
Item 2.
   
Item 3.
   
Item 4.
   
Item 5.
   
Item 6.
   
 

3


Table of Contents


PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary        
Consolidated Balance Sheets        
(unaudited)        
        
(in thousands, except share and per share data) June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
ASSETS        
Cash and due from banks $36,964
 $34,952
 $45,461
 $46,369
Federal funds sold 28,139
 12,997
 2,078
 1,105
Cash and cash equivalents 65,103
 47,949
 47,539
 47,474
Investment securities available for sale, at fair value 526,793
 444,219
 433,963
 453,758
Investment securities held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value $45,890 at December 31, 2017) 
 45,527
Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost 9,202
 9,174
 11,639
 12,037
Loans 1,534,404
 1,510,500
 1,748,830
 1,721,830
Allowance for loan losses (16,518) (16,430) (16,737) (16,689)
Loans, net 1,517,886
 1,494,070
 1,732,093
 1,705,141
Premises and equipment, net 22,053
 23,022
 30,510
 21,491
Accrued interest receivable 7,864
 7,344
 8,577
 7,631
Bank-owned life insurance 33,928
 33,618
 34,401
 34,249
Deferred tax assets, net 5,826
 4,645
 5,374
 6,518
Other assets 8,511
 4,809
 7,995
 8,269
Total assets $2,197,166
 $2,114,377
 $2,312,091
 $2,296,568
        
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY        
LIABILITIES        
Deposits:        
Noninterest-bearing demand $381,281
 $395,888
 $388,686
 $400,530
Interest-bearing demand 326,567
 395,052
 309,975
 336,089
Savings 1,004,926
 850,216
 1,007,634
 950,501
Time of $250 or more 29,382
 16,965
 40,689
 55,745
Other time 149,773
 152,692
 161,339
 151,664
Total deposits 1,891,929
 1,810,813
 1,908,323
 1,894,529
Federal funds purchased 860
 545
 17,735
 19,985
Subordinated notes, net 20,418
 20,412
 20,428
 20,425
Federal Home Loan Bank advances, net 77,124
 76,382
 128,247
 137,878
Long-term debt 19,611
 22,917
 25,011
 27,040
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 4,872
 5,210
 16,077
 5,688
Total liabilities 2,014,814
 1,936,279
 2,115,821
 2,105,545
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 8) 
 
 
 
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY        
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 50,000,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2018 and December 31, 2017 
 
Common stock, no par value; authorized 50,000,000 shares; 16,295,494
and 16,215,672 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2018
and December 31, 2017, respectively
 3,000
 3,000
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 50,000,000 shares; no shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018 
 
Common stock, no par value; authorized 50,000,000 shares; 16,357,752
and 16,295,494 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2019
and December 31, 2018, respectively
 3,000
 3,000
Additional paid-in capital 23,653
 23,463
 24,898
 25,128
Retained earnings 161,867
 153,527
 173,349
 169,709
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (6,168) (1,892) (4,977) (6,814)
Total stockholders' equity 182,352
 178,098
 196,270
 191,023
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $2,197,166
 $2,114,377
 $2,312,091
 $2,296,568
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

4


Table of Contents


West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary            
Consolidated Statements of Income            
(unaudited)            
 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except per share data) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2019 2018
Interest income:            
Loans, including fees $17,168
 $16,042
 $33,642
 $31,011
 $20,388
 $16,474
Investment securities:            
Taxable 1,886
 1,239
 3,699
 2,266
 2,328
 1,813
Tax-exempt 1,306
 815
 2,668
 1,593
 837
 1,362
Federal funds sold 177
 70
 258
 87
 98
 81
Total interest income 20,537
 18,166
 40,267
 34,957
 23,651
 19,730
Interest expense:      
  
  
  
Deposits 3,798
 1,781
 6,810
 2,976
 5,964
 3,012
Federal funds purchased 52
 23
 79
 69
 87
 27
Subordinated notes 284
 223
 532
 435
 252
 248
Federal Home Loan Bank advances 907
 948
 1,739
 1,865
 1,273
 832
Long-term debt 197
 98
 392
 130
 186
 195
Total interest expense 5,238
 3,073
 9,552
 5,475
 7,762
 4,314
Net interest income 15,299
 15,093
 30,715
 29,482
 15,889
 15,416
Provision for loan losses 
 
 150
 
 
 150
Net interest income after provision for loan losses 15,299
 15,093
 30,565
 29,482
 15,889
 15,266
Noninterest income:      
  
  
  
Service charges on deposit accounts 627
 631
 1,276
 1,231
 611
 649
Debit card usage fees 433
 458
 832
 898
 375
 399
Trust services 575
 436
 1,020
 828
 483
 445
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance 152
 163
 310
 317
 152
 158
Gain from bank-owned life insurance 
 
 
 307
Realized investment securities gains (losses), net (25) 229
 (25) 226
Realized investment securities losses, net (88) 
Other income 261
 399
 523
 669
 586
 262
Total noninterest income 2,023
 2,316
 3,936
 4,476
 2,119
 1,913
Noninterest expense:      
  
  
  
Salaries and employee benefits 4,775
 4,449
 9,288
 8,786
 5,460
 4,513
Occupancy 1,258
 1,131
 2,481
 2,228
 1,233
 1,223
Data processing 674
 708
 1,350
 1,396
 680
 676
FDIC insurance 165
 150
 327
 363
 219
 162
Professional fees 178
 248
 412
 541
 234
 234
Director fees 261
 246
 510
 457
 251
 249
Write-down of premises 333
 
 333
 
Other expenses 1,314
 1,240
 2,544
 2,444
 1,467
 1,230
Total noninterest expense 8,958
 8,172
 17,245
 16,215
 9,544
 8,287
Income before income taxes 8,364
 9,237
 17,256
 17,743
 8,464
 8,892
Income taxes 1,600
 2,872
 3,108
 5,272
 1,565
 1,508
Net income $6,764
 $6,365
 $14,148
 $12,471
 $6,899
 $7,384
            
Basic earnings per common share $0.42
 $0.39
 $0.87
 $0.77
 $0.42
 $0.46
Diluted earnings per common share $0.41
 $0.39
 $0.86
 $0.76
 $0.42
 $0.45
Cash dividends declared per common share $0.20
 $0.18
 $0.38
 $0.35
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

5


Table of Contents


West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary            
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive IncomeConsolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income      Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income   
(unaudited)            
 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2018 2017 2019 2018
Net income $6,764
 $6,365
 $14,148
 $12,471
 $6,899
 $7,384
Other comprehensive income (loss) :      
  
  
  
Unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities:            
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period (1,226) 2,218
 (8,191) 3,825
 4,917
 (6,965)
Unrealized gains on investment securities transferred from held to maturity to available for sale 
 
 363
 
 
 363
Plus: reclassification adjustment for net (gains) losses realized in net income 25
 (229) 25
 (226)
Plus: reclassification adjustment for net losses realized in net income 88
 
Less: other reclassification adjustment 
 (193) (36) (200) 
 (36)
Income tax benefit (expense) 301
 (683) 1,962
 (1,292) (1,251) 1,661
Other comprehensive income (loss) on investment securities (900) 1,113
 (5,877) 2,107
 3,754
 (4,977)
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives:            
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period 1,003
 (356) 2,548
 (347) (2,441) 1,545
Plus: reclassification adjustment for net (gain) loss on derivatives realized in net income (2) 79
 35
 169
 (137) 37
Plus: reclassification adjustment for amortization of derivative termination costs 24
 27
 47
 54
 23
 23
Income tax benefit (expense) (257) 95
 (659) 47
 638
 (402)
Other comprehensive income (loss) on derivatives 768
 (155) 1,971
 (77) (1,917) 1,203
Total other comprehensive income (loss) (132) 958
 (3,906)
2,030
 1,837

(3,774)
Comprehensive income $6,632
 $7,323
 $10,242
 $14,501
 $8,736
 $3,610

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 

6


Table of Contents


West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary              West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary          
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity              Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity          
(unaudited)                            
(in thousands, except share and per share data)(in thousands, except share and per share data)          
                            
           Accumulated   Three Months Ended March 31, 2019
       Additional   Other             Accumulated  
 Preferred Common Stock Paid-In Retained Comprehensive         Additional   Other  
(in thousands, except share and per share data) Stock Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Total
Balance, December 31, 2016 $
 16,137,999
 $3,000
 $21,462
 $141,956
 $(1,042) $165,376
 Preferred Common Stock Paid-In Retained Comprehensive  
 Stock Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Total
Balance, December 31, 2018 $
 16,295,494
 $3,000
 $25,128
 $169,709
 $(6,814) $191,023
Net income 
 
 
 
 12,471
 
 12,471
 
 
 
 
 6,899
 
 6,899
Other comprehensive income, net of tax 
 
 
 
 
 2,030
 2,030
 
 
 
 
 
 1,837
 1,837
Cash dividends declared, $0.35 per common share 
 
 
 
 (5,661) 
 (5,661)
Cash dividends declared, $0.20 per common share 
 
 
 
 (3,259) 

 (3,259)
Stock-based compensation costs 
 
 
 1,223
 
 
 1,223
 
 
 
 631
 
 
 631
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted 

 

 

 

 

 

  
stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 73,162
 
 (553) 
 
 (553)
Balance, June 30, 2017 $
 16,211,161
 $3,000
 $22,132
 $148,766
 $988
 $174,886
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 62,258
 
 (861) 
 
 (861)
Balance, March 31, 2019 $
 16,357,752
 $3,000
 $24,898
 $173,349
 $(4,977) $196,270
              
              
 Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
           Accumulated  
       Additional   Other  
 Preferred Common Stock Paid-In Retained Comprehensive  
               Stock Shares Amount Capital Earnings Income (Loss) Total
Balance, December 31, 2017 $
 16,215,672
 $3,000
 $23,463
 $153,527
 $(1,892) $178,098
 $
 16,215,672
 $3,000
 $23,463
 $153,527
 $(1,892) $178,098
Reclassification of stranded tax effects of rate change 
 
 
 
 370
 (370) 
 
 
 
 
 370
 (370) 
Net income 
 
 
 
 14,148
 
 14,148
 
 
 
 
 7,384
 
 7,384
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax 
 
 
 
 
 (3,906) (3,906) 
 
 
 
 
 (3,774) (3,774)
Cash dividends declared, $0.38 per common share 
 
 
 
 (6,178) 
 (6,178)
Cash dividends declared, $0.18 per common share 
 
 
 
 (2,919) 
 (2,919)
Stock-based compensation costs 
 
 
 1,266
 
 
 1,266
 
 
 
 529
 
 
 529
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted 

 

 

 

 

 

  
stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 79,822
 
 (1,076) 
 
 (1,076)
Balance, June 30, 2018 $
 16,295,494

$3,000
 $23,653
 $161,867
 $(6,168) $182,352
Issuance of common stock upon vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares withheld for payroll taxes 
 55,822
 
 (1,076) 
 
 (1,076)
Balance, March 31, 2018 $
 16,271,494

$3,000
 $22,916
 $158,362
 $(6,036) $178,242

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


7


Table of Contents


West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary        
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows        
(unaudited)        
 Six Months Ended June 30, Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands) 2018 2017 2019 2018
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:        
Net income $14,148
 $12,471
 $6,899
 $7,384
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:        
Provision for loan losses 150
 
 
 150
Net amortization and accretion 2,528
 1,835
 1,020
 1,252
Investment securities (gains) losses, net 25
 (226)
Investment securities losses, net 88
 
Stock-based compensation 1,266
 1,223
 631
 529
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance (310) (317) (152) (158)
Gain from bank-owned life insurance 
 (307)
Gain on sale of premises (307) 
Depreciation 703
 673
 345
 353
Write-down of premises 333
 
Deferred income taxes 122
 690
 531
 279
Change in assets and liabilities:        
Increase in accrued interest receivable (520) (72)
(Increase) decrease in accrued interest receivable (946) 57
Increase in other assets (1,204) (257) (782) (149)
Decrease in accrued expenses and other liabilities (254) (1,114) (682) (124)
Net cash provided by operating activities 16,987
 14,599
 6,645
 9,573
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:  
  
  
  
Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale 9,216
 53,020
 62,274
 
Proceeds from maturities and calls of investment securities 20,937
 28,122
 8,882
 9,464
Purchases of securities available for sale (76,796) (138,436) (47,068) (10,000)
Purchases of Federal Home Loan Bank stock (6,854) (12,074) (11,539) (2,134)
Proceeds from redemption of Federal Home Loan Bank stock 6,826
 11,764
 11,937
 1,178
Net increase in loans (23,966) (35,135)
Net (increase) decrease in loans (26,952) 8,102
Proceeds from sale of premises 604
 
Purchases of premises and equipment (67) (431) (113) (13)
Proceeds of principal and earnings from bank-owned life insurance 
 451
Net cash used in investing activities (70,704) (92,719)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (1,975) 6,597
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:  
  
  
  
Net increase in deposits 81,116
 28,470
Net increase in federal funds purchased 315
 5,470
Proceeds from long-term debt 
 22,000
Net increase (decrease) in deposits 13,794
 (72,655)
Net increase (decrease) in federal funds purchased (2,250) 51,275
Principal payments on Federal Home Loan Bank advances (60,000) 
Proceeds from Federal Home Loan Bank advances 50,000
 
Principal payments on long-term debt (3,306) (1,656) (2,029) (1,278)
Common stock dividends paid (6,178) (5,661) (3,259) (2,919)
Restricted stock units withheld for payroll taxes (1,076) (553) (861) (1,076)
Net cash provided by financing activities 70,871
 48,070
Net cash used in financing activities (4,605) (26,653)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 17,154
 (30,050) 65
 (10,483)
Cash and Cash Equivalents:        
Beginning 47,949
 76,836
 47,474
 47,949
Ending $65,103
 $46,786
 $47,539
 $37,466
        
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:        
Cash payments for:        
Interest $9,457
 $5,361
 $7,414
 $4,196
Income taxes 2,020
 3,780
 
 
        
Supplemental Disclosure of Noncash Investing Activities:        
Establishment of lease liability and right-of-use asset $10,092
 $
Transfer of investment securities held to maturity to available for sale $45,527
 $
 
 45,527
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

8


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


1.  Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared by West Bancorporation, Inc. (the Company) pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. Although management believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented understandable, it is suggested that these interim consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 20172018. filed with the SEC on February 28, 2019.  In the opinion of management, the accompanying consolidated financial statements of the Company contain all adjustments necessary to fairly present its financial position as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018, and net income, and comprehensive income, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017, and changes in stockholders' equity and cash flows for the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and 2017.2018.  The results for these interim periods may not be indicative of results for the entire year or for any other period.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB).  References to GAAP issued by the FASB in these footnotes are to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification™, sometimes referred to as the Codification or ASC.  In preparing the consolidated financial statements, management is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses for the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.  Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change in the near term are the fair value of financial instruments and the allowance for loan losses.

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, West Bank, West Bank's special purpose subsidiaries and West Bank's wholly-owned subsidiary WB Funding Corporation (which was liquidated in March 2018).  All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.  In accordance with GAAP, West Bancorporation Capital Trust I is recorded on the books of the Company using the equity method of accounting and is not consolidated.

Current accounting developments:  In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606). The guidance in this update supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in ASC Topic 605, Revenue Recognition, and most industry-specific guidance throughout the industry topics of the Codification. The core principle is that a company should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. For public companies, this update was effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective method. The implementation of the new standard did not result in a change to the accounting for any in-scope revenue streams; as such, no cumulative effect adjustment to opening retained earnings was recorded. The Company's revenue is primarily composed of interest income on financial instruments, including investment securities and loans, which are excluded from the scope of Topic 606. Also excluded from the scope of Topic 606 is revenue from bank-owned life insurance, loan fees and letter of credit fees. Approximately 90 percent of the Company's revenue is outside the scope of this update. Topic 606 is applicable to deposit account related fees, including general service fees charged for deposit account maintenance and activity and transaction-based fees charged for certain services, such as debit card, wire transfer or overdraft activities. Revenue is recognized when the performance obligation is completed, which is generally after a transaction is completed or monthly for account maintenance services. Topic 606 is also applicable to trust services, which include periodic fees earned from trusts and investment management agency accounts, estate administration, custody accounts, individual retirement accounts, and other related services. Fees are charged based on standard agreements or by statute and are recognized over the period of time the Company provides the contracted services.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, Financial Instruments—Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. The update enhances the reporting model for financial instruments to provide users of financial statements with more decision-useful information by updating certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. Among other changes, the update requires public business entities to use the exit price notion when measuring the fair value of financial instruments for disclosure purposes, and clarifies that entities should evaluate the need for a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset related to available for sale securities in combination with the entities' other deferred tax assets. For public companies, this update was effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018, using the modified retrospective method. Upon adoption, the fair value of the Company's loan portfolio is now presented using an exit price method. Also, the Company is no longer required to disclose the methodologies used for estimating fair value of financial assets and liabilities that are not measured at fair value on a recurring or nonrecurring basis. The remaining requirements of this update did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

9


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The guidance in the update supersedes the requirements in ASC Topic 840, Leases. The guidance is intended to increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing leaseright-of-use assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet for leases with terms of more than 12 months.sheet. For public companies, this update will bewas effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and is to be applied on a modified retrospective basis.2018. The Company currentlyadopted this guidance in the first quarter of 2019. Upon adoption, the Company elected a practical expedient which allows existing leases its main locationto retain their classification as operating leases. The Company has elected to account for lease and space for six other branch offices and operational departments under operating leases that will result in recognition ofrelated nonlease components as a single lease component. The Company has also elected to not recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities arising from short-term leases. Implementation of the guidance resulted in the recording of a right-of-use asset and lease liability on the consolidated balance sheets under the update. The amount of assets and liabilities added to the balance sheet are estimated to be approximately $10,000 whichsheet; however it does not have a material impact on the Company's other consolidated financial statements. See additional disclosures in Note 9.

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326). The amendments in this update require a financial asset (or a group of financial assets) measured at amortized cost basis to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The allowance for credit losses is a valuation account that is deducted from the amortized cost basis of the financial assets to present the net carrying value at the amount expected to be collected on the financial assets. Under the updates, the income statement will reflect the measurement of credit losses for newly recognized financial assets, as well as the expected increases or decreases of expected credit losses that have taken place during the period. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectibility of the reported amount of financial assets. An entity must use judgment in determining the relevant information and estimation methods that are appropriate in its circumstances. The allowance for credit losses for purchased financial assets with a more-than-insignificant amount of credit deterioration since origination that are measured at amortized cost basis will be determined in a similar manner to other financial assets measured at amortized cost basis; however, the initial allowance for credit losses will be added to the purchase price rather than being reported as a credit loss expense. Only subsequent changes in the allowance for credit losses will be recorded as a credit loss expense for these assets. Off-balance-sheet arrangements such as commitments to extend credit, guarantees and standby letters of credit that are not considered derivatives under ASC 815 and are not unconditionally cancellable are also within the scope of this update. Credit losses relating to available for sale debt securities should be recorded through an allowance for credit losses. For public companies, the update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years. All entities may adopt the amendments in this update earlier as of fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years. An entity will apply the amendments in this update on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. The Company does not plan to early adopt this standard, but is currently planning for the implementation. It is too early to assess the impact that this guidance will have on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities. The amendments in this update make targeted changes to the existing hedge accounting model to better align the accounting rules with a company’s risk management activities, and to simplify the application of the hedge accounting model. The updateexpands the types of transactions eligible for hedge accounting, eliminates the requirement to separately measure and present hedge ineffectiveness, and simplifies the way assessments of hedge ineffectiveness may be performed. The update also permits a one-time reclassification of prepayable debt securities from held to maturity classification to available for sale. For public companies, the update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted, including in an interim period. The amendments' presentation and disclosure guidance is required on a prospective basis. The Company adopted the guidance effective January 1, 2018. The requirements of this update related to the Company's hedging activities did not have any impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Upon adoption, the Company elected to transfer all its held to maturity securities portfolio to available for sale. The transferred securities had an amortized cost basis of $45,527 and a fair value of $45,890. Upon transfer, the Company recorded an adjustment of $273 to accumulated other comprehensive income, net of deferred income taxes, for the unrealized gains and losses related to the transferred securities.

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-02, Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income. The amendment in this update allows a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the December 22, 2017, enactment of the reduced federal corporate income tax rate, which became effective in 2018. For public companies, the update is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, with early adoption permitted. The amendment can be adopted at the beginning of the period or on a retrospective basis. The Company adopted the amendment effective January 1, 2018, using the beginning of period method. The reclassified amount was $370.


109


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The Company is developing its approach for determining the expected credit losses under the new guidance.  The Company continues collecting and retaining historical loan and credit data and is currently evaluating alternative loss estimation models. While we currently cannot reasonably estimate the impact of adopting this standard, we expect the impact will be influenced by the composition, risk characteristics and quality of our loan and securities portfolios, as well as the general economic conditions and forecasts as of the adoption date. We expect that the new guidance will result in an increase to the allowance for loan losses given that the allowance will be required to cover the full remaining expected life of the portfolio, rather than the incurred loss under the current accounting standard.  The magnitude of this increase is still being evaluated.  We are also reviewing the impact of additional disclosures required under ASU 2016-13 on our ongoing financial reporting procedures.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework – Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. The amendments in this update modify the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements by removing, modifying, or adding certain disclosures. The update is effective for interim and annual periods in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early adoption permitted for the removed disclosures and delayed adoption until fiscal year 2020 permitted for the new disclosures. The removed and modified disclosures will be adopted on a retrospective basis, and the new disclosures will be adopted on a prospective basis. The adoption will not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

2.  Earnings per Common Share

Basic earnings per common share are computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period.  Diluted earnings per common share reflect the potential dilution that could occur if the Company's outstanding restricted stock units were vested. The dilutive effect was computed using the treasury stock method, which assumes all stock-based awards were exercised and the hypothetical proceeds from exercise were used by the Company to purchase common stock at the average market price during the period.  The incremental shares, to the extent they would have been dilutive, were included in the denominator of the diluted earnings per common share calculation.  The calculations of earnings per common share and diluted earnings per common share for the three and six months ended June 30,March 31, 2019 and 2018 and 2017 are presented in the following table.

Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except per share data)2018 2017 2018 20172019 2018
Net income$6,764
 $6,365
 $14,148
 $12,471
$6,899
 $7,384
          
Weighted average common shares outstanding16,289
 16,204
 16,254
 16,173
16,300
 16,219
Weighted average effect of restricted stock units outstanding102
 106
 146
 131
80
 189
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding16,391
 16,310
 16,400
 16,304
16,380
 16,408
 
  
  
  
 
  
Basic earnings per common share$0.42
 $0.39
 $0.87
 $0.77
$0.42
 $0.46
Diluted earnings per common share$0.41
 $0.39
 $0.86
 $0.76
$0.42
 $0.45
Number of anti-dilutive common stock equivalents excluded from diluted earnings per share computation130
 1
 69
 8
225
 8


1110


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


3.  Investment Securities

The following tables show the amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, and fair value of investment securities, by investment security type as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017.2018.
June 30, 2018March 31, 2019
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
Securities available for sale:              
U.S. Treasuries$39,535
 $
 $(31) $39,504
State and political subdivisions179,445
 281
 (3,822) 175,904
$89,788
 $63
 $(1,088) $88,763
Collateralized mortgage obligations (1)
167,778
 11
 (4,950) 162,839
183,630
 14
 (2,788) 180,856
Mortgage-backed securities (1)
56,421
 
 (1,391) 55,030
61,596
 37
 (802) 60,831
Asset-backed securities (2)
42,071
 
 (609) 41,462
30,872
 24
 (114) 30,782
Collateralized loan obligations19,888
 
 (1) 19,887
Trust preferred security2,144
 
 (144) 2,000
2,156
 
 (156) 2,000
Corporate notes50,852
 135
 (933) 50,054
51,859
 113
 (1,128) 50,844
$538,246
 $427
 $(11,880) $526,793
$439,789
 $251
 $(6,077) $433,963
              
              
December 31, 2017December 31, 2018
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
Amortized
Cost
 
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
Securities available for sale:              
State and political subdivisions$146,331
 $928
 $(946) $146,313
$152,293
 $156
 $(3,293) $149,156
Collateralized mortgage obligations (1)
162,631
 28
 (2,727) 159,932
161,392
 
 (4,388) 157,004
Mortgage-backed securities (1)
60,956
 20
 (547) 60,429
64,813
 
 (1,435) 63,378
Asset-backed securities (2)
45,539
 8
 (352) 45,195
32,076
 2
 (175) 31,903
Trust preferred security2,134
 
 (128) 2,006
2,153
 
 (253) 1,900
Corporate notes30,278
 331
 (265) 30,344
51,862
 124
 (1,569) 50,417
$447,869
 $1,315
 $(4,965) $444,219
$464,589
 $282
 $(11,113) $453,758
       
Securities held to maturity:       
State and political subdivisions$45,527
 $460
 $(97) $45,890
(1)All collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage-backed securities consist of residential mortgage pass-through securities guaranteed by FHLMC or FNMA, real estate mortgage investment conduits guaranteed by FNMA, FHLMC or GNMA, and commercial mortgage pass-through securities guaranteed by the SBA.
(2)Pass-through asset-backed securities guaranteed by the SBA, representing participating interests in pools of long-term debentures issued by state and local development companies certified by the SBA.

On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the amendments of ASU No. 2017-12 and, as a result, elected to transfer all securities classified as held to maturity to available for sale. At the date of reclassification, the held to maturity securities portfolio was carried at an amortized cost of $45,527. The reclassification of securities between categories was accounted for at fair value. At the date of reclassification, the securities had a fair value of $45,890 and net unrealized holding gains of $273, which were recorded net of tax in other comprehensive income. The transfer enhanced liquidity and increased flexibility with regard to asset-liability management and balance sheet composition.

Investment securities with an amortized cost of approximately $142,522100,467 and $120,338126,531 as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018, respectively, were pledged to secure access to the Federal Reserve discount window, for public fund deposits, and for other purposes as required or permitted by law or regulation.

1211


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The amortized cost and fair value of investment securities available for sale as of June 30, 2018,March 31, 2019, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Certain securities have call features that allow the issuer to call the securities prior to maturity.  Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities for collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties.  Therefore, collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities are not included in the maturity categories within the following maturity summary.
June 30, 2018March 31, 2019
Amortized Cost Fair ValueAmortized Cost Fair Value
Due in one year or less$19,904
 $19,889
Due after one year through five years22,887
 22,853
$16,473
 $16,567
Due after five years through ten years86,692
 85,373
62,206
 61,069
Due after ten years142,493
 139,347
85,012
 83,858
271,976
 267,462
163,691
 161,494
Collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities266,270
 259,331
276,098
 272,469
$538,246
 $526,793
$439,789
 $433,963
The details of the sales of investment securities available for sale for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and 20172018 are summarized in the following table.
Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2018 2017 2018 20172019 2018
Proceeds from sales$9,216
 $44,021
 $9,216
 $53,020
$62,274
 $
Gross gains on sales34
 291
 34
 330
133
 
Gross losses on sales59
 62
 59
 104
221
 

1312


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following tables show the fair value and gross unrealized losses, aggregated by investment type and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous loss position, as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017.2018.
June 30, 2018March 31, 2019
Less than 12 months 12 months or longer TotalLess than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
Securities available for sale:                      
U.S. Treasuries$39,504
 $(31) $
 $
 $39,504
 $(31)
State and political subdivisions141,075
 (3,520) 8,983
 (302) 150,058
 (3,822)$1,700
 $(5) $71,800
 $(1,083) $73,500
 $(1,088)
Collateralized mortgage obligations99,125
 (2,650) 55,565
 (2,300) 154,690
 (4,950)19,637
 (170) 124,232
 (2,618) 143,869
 (2,788)
Mortgage-backed securities46,113
 (1,305) 8,015
 (86) 54,128
 (1,391)7,009
 (4) 48,125
 (798) 55,134
 (802)
Asset-backed securities33,110
 (305) 8,352
 (304) 41,462
 (609)
 
 20,232
 (114) 20,232
 (114)
Collateralized loan obligations19,887
 (1) 
 
 19,887
 (1)
Trust preferred security
 
 2,000
 (144) 2,000
 (144)
 
 2,000
 (156) 2,000
 (156)
Corporate notes36,823
 (745) 2,312
 (188) 39,135
 (933)21,720
 (338) 19,209
 (790) 40,929
 (1,128)
$395,750
 $(8,556) $85,227
 $(3,324) $480,977
 $(11,880)$69,953
 $(518) $285,598
 $(5,559) $355,551
 $(6,077)
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
                      
December 31, 2017December 31, 2018
Less than 12 months 12 months or longer TotalLess than 12 months 12 months or longer Total
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
 
Fair
Value
 
Gross
Unrealized
(Losses)
Securities available for sale:                      
State and political subdivisions$86,750
 $(946) $
 $
 $86,750
 $(946)$21,264
 $(221) $102,853
 $(3,072) $124,117
 $(3,293)
Collateralized mortgage obligations107,526
 (1,583) 46,396
 (1,144) 153,922
 (2,727)32,230
 (250) 124,775
 (4,138) 157,005
 (4,388)
Mortgage-backed securities53,974
 (547) 
 
 53,974
 (547)10,960
 (103) 51,823
 (1,332) 62,783
 (1,435)
Asset-backed securities38,652
 (352) 
 
 38,652
 (352)6,668
 (31) 16,486
 (144) 23,154
 (175)
Trust preferred security
 
 2,006
 (128) 2,006
 (128)
 
 1,900
 (253) 1,900
 (253)
Corporate notes14,735
 (265) 
 
 14,735
 (265)19,470
 (611) 19,041
 (958) 38,511
 (1,569)
$301,637
 $(3,693) $48,402
 $(1,272) $350,039
 $(4,965)$90,592
 $(1,216) $316,878
 $(9,897) $407,470
 $(11,113)
           
Securities held to maturity:           
State and political subdivisions$12,611
 $(70) $1,740
 $(27) $14,351
 $(97)
As of June 30, 2018,March 31, 2019, the available for sale securities with unrealized losses included two U.S. Treasuries, 204102 state and political subdivision securities, 4443 collateralized mortgage obligation securities, 16 mortgage-backed securities, sevenfive asset-backed securities, four collateralized loan obligation securities, one trust preferred security and 1516 corporate notes. The Company believedbelieves the unrealized losses on investmentssecurities available for sale as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 were due to market conditions rather than reduced estimated cash flows. TheAt this time, the Company does not intend to sell these securities, does not anticipate that these securities will be required to be sold before anticipated recovery, and expects full principal and interest to be collected. Therefore, the Company did not consider these investmentssecurities to have other than temporary impairment as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019.



1413


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


4. Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses

Loans consisted of the following segments as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018.
June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
Commercial$326,820
 $347,482
$366,654
 $358,763
Real estate:      
Construction, land and land development182,681
 207,451
270,322
 245,810
1-4 family residential first mortgages49,679
 51,044
48,929
 49,052
Home equity13,859
 13,811
13,723
 14,469
Commercial956,810
 886,114
1,044,922
 1,050,025
Consumer and other6,524
 6,363
6,758
 6,211
1,536,373
 1,512,265
1,751,308
 1,724,330
Net unamortized fees and costs(1,969) (1,765)(2,478) (2,500)
$1,534,404
 $1,510,500
$1,748,830
 $1,721,830
Real estate loans of approximately $750,000$820,000 and $810,000$800,000 were pledged as security for Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) advances as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018, respectively.

Loans are stated at the principal amounts outstanding, net of unamortized loan fees and costs, with interest income recognized on the interest method based upon the terms of the loan.  Loan origination fees, net of certain direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized as an adjustment of the related loan yield using the interest method. Loans are reported by the portfolio segments identified above and are analyzed by management on this basis. All loan policies identified below apply to all segments of the loan portfolio.

Delinquencies are determined based on the payment terms of the individual loan agreements. The accrual of interest on past due and other impaired loans is generally discontinued at 90 days past due or when, in the opinion of management, the borrower may be unable to make all payments pursuant to contractual terms.  Unless considered collectible, all interest accrued but not collected for loans that are placed on nonaccrual or charged off is reversed against interest income, if accrued in the current year, or charged to the allowance for loan losses, if accrued in the prior year.  Generally, all payments received while a loan is on nonaccrual status are applied to the principal balance of the loan. Loans are returned to accrual status when all principal and interest amounts contractually due are brought current and future payments are reasonably assured. 

A loan is classified as a troubled debt restructured (TDR) loan when the Company separately concludes that a borrower is experiencing financial difficulties and a concession is granted that would not otherwise be considered. Concessions may include a restructuring of the loan terms to alleviate the burden of the borrower's cash requirements, such as an extension of the payment terms beyond the original maturity date or a change in the interest rate charged.  TDR loans with extended payment terms are accounted for as impaired until performance is established. A change to the interest rate would change the classification of a loan to a TDR loan if the restructured loan yields a rate that is below a market rate for that of a new loan with comparable risk. TDR loans with below-market rates are considered impaired until fully collected. TDR loans may also be reported as nonaccrual or 90 days past due if they are not performing per the restructured terms.

Based upon its ongoing assessment of credit quality within the loan portfolio, the Company maintains a Watch List, which includes loans classified as Doubtful, Substandard and Watch according to the Company's classification criteria. These loans involve the anticipated potential for payment defaults or collateral inadequacies. A loan on the Watch List is considered impaired when management believes it is probable the Company will be unable to collect all contractual principal and interest payments due in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement.  Impaired loans are measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate or, as a practical expedient, at the loan's observable market price or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent.  The amount of impairment, if any, and any subsequent changes are included in the allowance for loan losses.

  





1514


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


TDR loans totaled $724$616 and $220$652 as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017,2018, respectively, and were included in the nonaccrual category. There was one loan modification considered to be TDR, with a pre- and post-modification recorded investment of $560, that occurred during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018. There were no loan modifications considered to be TDR that occurred during the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.March 31, 2019 and 2018. One TDR loan that was modified within the twelve months preceding March 31, 2019, with a recorded investment of $537, has subsequently had a payment default. No TDR loans that were modified within the twelve months preceding June 30,March 31, 2018 and June 30, 2017 have subsequently had a payment default. A TDR loan is considered to have a payment default when it is past due 30 days or more.

The following table summarizes the recorded investment in impaired loans by segment, broken down by loans with no related allowance for loan losses and loans with a related allowance and the amount of that allowance as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017.2018.
June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
Recorded Investment Unpaid Principal Balance Related Allowance Recorded Investment Unpaid Principal Balance Related AllowanceRecorded Investment Unpaid Principal Balance Related Allowance Recorded Investment Unpaid Principal Balance Related Allowance
With no related allowance recorded:                      
Commercial$990
 $990
 $
 $
 $
 $
$962
 $962
 $
 $1,014
 $1,014
 $
Real estate:                      
Construction, land and land development
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages116
 116
 
 91
 91
 
100
 100
 
 106
 106
 
Home equity172
 172
 
 172
 172
 
39
 39
 
 41
 41
 
Commercial724
 724
 
 220
 220
 
616
 616
 
 652
 652
 
Consumer and other
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
2,002
 2,002
 
 483
 483
 
1,717
 1,717
 
 1,813
 1,813
 
With an allowance recorded:                      
Commercial
 
 
 
 
 
14
 14
 14
 15
 15
 15
Real estate:                      
Construction, land and land development
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Home equity16
 16
 16
 21
 21
 21

 
 
 
 
 
Commercial109
 109
 109
 118
 118
 118
96
 96
 96
 100
 100
 100
Consumer and other
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
125
 125
 125
 139
 139
 139
110
 110
 110
 115
 115
 115
Total:                      
Commercial990
 990
 
 
 
 
976
 976
 14
 1,029
 1,029
 15
Real estate:                      
Construction, land and land development
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages116
 116
 
 91
 91
 
100
 100
 
 106
 106
 
Home equity188
 188
 16
 193
 193
 21
39
 39
 
 41
 41
 
Commercial833
 833
 109
 338
 338
 118
712
 712
 96
 752
 752
 100
Consumer and other
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
$2,127
 $2,127
 $125
 $622
 $622
 $139
$1,827
 $1,827
 $110
 $1,928
 $1,928
 $115
   
The balance of impaired loans at June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018 was composed of seven and fiveten different borrowers, respectively.borrowers. The Company has no commitments to advance additional funds on any of the impaired loans.



1615


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following table summarizes the average recorded investment and interest income recognized on impaired loans by segment for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and 2017.2018.
Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2018 2017 2018 20172019 2018
Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Average Recorded Investment Interest Income RecognizedAverage Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized Average Recorded Investment Interest Income Recognized
With no related allowance recorded:                      
Commercial$902
 $
 $35
 $
 $543
 $
 $35
 $
$989
 $
 $270
 $
Real estate:                      
Construction, land and land development
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages119
 
 101
 
 117
 
 104
 
103
 
 115
 
Home equity172
 
 29
 
 172
 
 34
 
40
 
 172
 
Commercial768
 
 290
 
 529
 
 305
 
634
 
 357
 
Consumer and other
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
1,961
 
 455
 
 1,361
 
 478
 
1,766
 
 914
 
With an allowance recorded:                      
Commercial
 
 85
 
 
 
 87
 
14
 
 
 
Real estate:                      
Construction, land and land development
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
Home equity17
 
 247
 
 18
 
 258
 

 
 20
 
Commercial112
 
 130
 
 114
 
 132
 
98
 
 116
 
Consumer and other
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
129
 
 462
 
 132
 
 477
 
112
 
 136
 
Total:                      
Commercial902
 
 120
 
 543
 
 122
 
1,003
 
 270
 
Real estate:                      
Construction, land and land development
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
1-4 family residential first mortgages119
 
 101
 
 117
 
 104
 
103
 
 115
 
Home equity189
 
 276
 
 190
 
 292
 
40
 
 192
 
Commercial880
 
 420
 
 643
 
 437
 
732
 
 473
 
Consumer and other
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
$2,090
 $
 $917
 $
 $1,493
 $
 $955
 $
$1,878
 $
 $1,050
 $



1716


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following tables provide an analysis of the payment status of the recorded investment in loans as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018.
June 30, 2018March 31, 2019
30-59
Days Past
Due
 
60-89
Days Past
Due
 
90 Days
or More
Past Due
 
Total
Past Due
 Current Nonaccrual Loans Total Loans
30-59
Days Past
Due
 
60-89
Days Past
Due
 
90 Days
or More
Past Due
 
Total
Past Due
 Current Nonaccrual Loans Total Loans
Commercial$65
 $
 $
 $65
 $325,765
 $990
 $326,820
$
 $
 $
 $
 $365,678
 $976
 $366,654
Real estate:                          
Construction, land and                          
land development
 
 
 
 182,681
 
 182,681

 
 
 
 270,322
 
 270,322
1-4 family residential                          
first mortgages
 
 
 
 49,563
 116
 49,679
172
 
 
 172
 48,657
 100
 48,929
Home equity30
 
 
 30
 13,641
 188
 13,859

 
 
 
 13,684
 39
 13,723
Commercial
 
 
 
 955,977
 833
 956,810

 
 
 
 1,044,210
 712
 1,044,922
Consumer and other
 
 
 
 6,524
 
 6,524

 
 
 
 6,758
 
 6,758
Total$95
 $
 $
 $95
 $1,534,151
 $2,127
 $1,536,373
$172
 $
 $
 $172
 $1,749,309
 $1,827
 $1,751,308
December 31, 2017December 31, 2018
30-59
Days Past
Due
 
60-89
Days Past
Due
 
90 Days
or More
Past Due
 
Total
Past Due
 Current Nonaccrual Loans 
Total
Loans
30-59
Days Past
Due
 
60-89
Days Past
Due
 
90 Days
or More
Past Due
 
Total
Past Due
 Current Nonaccrual Loans 
Total
Loans
Commercial$40
 $20
 $
 $60
 $347,422
 $
 $347,482
$54
 $
 $
 $54
 $357,680
 $1,029
 $358,763
Real estate:                          
Construction, land and                          
land development
 
 
 
 207,451
 
 207,451

 
 
 
 245,810
 
 245,810
1-4 family residential                          
first mortgages
 75
 
 75
 50,878
 91
 51,044
157
 
 
 157
 48,789
 106
 49,052
Home equity
 
 
 
 13,618
 193
 13,811

 
 
 
 14,428
 41
 14,469
Commercial
 
 
 
 885,776
 338
 886,114

 
 
 
 1,049,273
 752
 1,050,025
Consumer and other
 
 
 
 6,363
 
 6,363

 
 
 
 6,211
 
 6,211
Total$40
 $95
 $
 $135
 $1,511,508
 $622
 $1,512,265
$211
 $
 $
 $211
 $1,722,191
 $1,928
 $1,724,330


1817


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following tables present the recorded investment in loans by credit quality indicator and loan segment as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017.2018.
June 30, 2018March 31, 2019
Pass Watch Substandard Doubtful TotalPass Watch Substandard Doubtful Total
Commercial$321,507
 $3,307
 $2,006
 $
 $326,820
$345,485
 $19,231
 $1,938
 $
 $366,654
Real estate:                  
Construction, land and land development181,452
 1,229
 
 
 182,681
270,322
 
 
 
 270,322
1-4 family residential first mortgages48,692
 791
 196
 
 49,679
47,715
 1,055
 159
 
 48,929
Home equity13,491
 80
 288
 
 13,859
13,611
 43
 69
 
 13,723
Commercial928,223
 19,374
 9,213
 
 956,810
1,014,417
 28,854
 1,651
 
 1,044,922
Consumer and other6,493
 
 31
 
 6,524
6,758
 
 
 
 6,758
Total$1,499,858
 $24,781
 $11,734
 $
 $1,536,373
$1,698,308
 $49,183
 $3,817
 $
 $1,751,308
December 31, 2017December 31, 2018
Pass Watch Substandard Doubtful TotalPass Watch Substandard Doubtful Total
Commercial$344,586
 $901
 $1,995
 $
 $347,482
$336,861
 $19,886
 $2,016
 $
 $358,763
Real estate:                  
Construction, land and land development206,719
 732
 
 
 207,451
245,810
 
 
 
 245,810
1-4 family residential first mortgages49,905
 890
 249
 
 51,044
47,923
 963
 166
 
 49,052
Home equity13,466
 54
 291
 
 13,811
14,352
 46
 71
 
 14,469
Commercial856,789
 20,574
 8,751
 
 886,114
1,019,256
 29,063
 1,706
 
 1,050,025
Consumer and other6,327
 36
 
 
 6,363
6,186
 
 25
 
 6,211
Total$1,477,792
 $23,187
 $11,286
 $
 $1,512,265
$1,670,388
 $49,958
 $3,984
 $
 $1,724,330
All loans are subject to the assessment of a credit quality indicator. Risk ratings are assigned for each loan at the time of approval, and they change as circumstances dictate during the term of the loan. The Company utilizes a 9-point risk rating scale as shown below, with ratings 1 - 5 included in the Pass column, rating 6 included in the Watch column, ratings 7 - 8 included in the Substandard column and rating 9 included in the Doubtful column. All loans classified as impaired that are included in the specific evaluation of the allowance for loan losses are included in the Substandard column along with all other loans with ratings of 7 - 8.

Risk rating 1: The loan is secured by cash equivalent collateral.

Risk rating 2: The loan is secured by properly margined marketable securities, bonds or cash surrender value of life insurance.

Risk rating 3: The borrower is in strong financial condition and has strong debt service capacity. The loan is performing as agreed, and the financial characteristics and trends of the borrower exceed industry statistics.

Risk rating 4: The borrower's financial condition is satisfactory and stable.  The borrower has satisfactory debt service capacity, and the loan is well secured. The loan is performing as agreed, and the financial characteristics and trends fall in line with industry statistics.

Risk rating 5: The borrower's financial condition is less than satisfactory. The loan is still generally paying as agreed, but strained cash flows may cause some slowness in payments. The collateral values adequately preclude loss on the loan. Financial characteristics and trends lag industry statistics. There may be noncompliance with loan covenants.

Risk rating 6: The borrower's financial condition is deficient. Payment delinquencies may be more common. Collateral values still protect from loss, but margins are narrow. The loan may be reliant on secondary sources of repayment, including liquidation of collateral and guarantor support.


1918


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


Risk rating 7: The loan is inadequately protected by the current sound worth and paying capacity of the obligor or of the collateral pledged, if any. Well-defined weaknesses exist that jeopardize the liquidation of the debt. The Company is inadequately protected by the valuation or paying capacity of the collateral pledged. If deficiencies are not corrected, there is a distinct possibility that a loss will be sustained.

Risk rating 8: All the characteristics of rating 7 exist with the added condition that the loan is past due more than 90 days or there is reason to believe the Company will not receive its principal and interest according to the terms of the loan agreement.

Risk rating 9: All the weaknesses inherent in risk ratings 7 and 8 exist with the added condition that collection or liquidation, on the basis of currently known facts, conditions and values, is highly questionable and improbable. A loan reaching this category would most likely be charged off.

Credit quality indicators for all loans and the Company's risk rating process are dynamic and updated on a continuous basis. Risk ratings are updated as circumstances that could affect the repayment of an individual loan are brought to management's attention through an established monitoring process. Individual lenders initiate changes as appropriate for ratings 1 through 5, and changes for ratings 6 through 9 are initiated via communications with management. The likelihood of loss increases as the risk rating increases and is generally preceded by a loan appearing on the Watch List, which consists of all loans with a risk rating of 6 or worse. Written action plans with firm target dates for resolution of identified problems are maintained and reviewed on a quarterly basis for all segments of loans included on the Watch List.

In addition to the Company's internal credit monitoring practices and procedures, an outsourced independent credit review function is in place to further assess assigned internal risk classifications and monitor compliance with internal lending policies and procedures.

In all portfolio segments, the primary risks are that a borrower's income stream diminishes to the point that the borrower is not able to make scheduled principal and interest payments and any collateral securing the loan declines in value. The risk of declining collateral values is present for most types of loans.

Commercial loans consist primarily of loans to businesses for various purposes, including revolving lines to finance current operations, inventory and accounts receivable, and capital expenditure loans to finance equipment and other fixed assets.  These loans generally have short maturities, have either adjustable or fixed interest rates, and are either unsecured or secured by inventory, accounts receivable and/or fixed assets. For commercial loans, the primary source of repayment is from the operation of the business.

Real estate loans include various types of loans for which the Company holds real property as collateral, and consist of loans on commercial properties and single and multifamily residences.  Real estate loans are typically structured to mature or reprice every five to ten years with payments based on amortization periods up to 30 years.  The majority of construction loans are to contractors and developers for construction of commercial buildings or residential real estate. These loans typically have maturities of up to 24 months. The Company's loan policy includes minimum appraisal and other credit guidelines.

Consumer loans include loans extended to individuals for household, family and other personal expenditures not secured by real estate.  The majority of the Company's consumer lending is for vehicles, consolidation of personal debts and household improvements. The repayment source for consumer loans, including 1-4 family residential and home equity loans, is typically wages.

The allowance for loan losses is established through a provision for loan losses charged to expense.  The allowance is an amount that management believes will be adequate to absorb probable losses on existing loans based on an evaluation of the collectability of loans and prior loss experience.  This evaluation also takes into consideration such factors as changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, overall portfolio quality, the review of specific problem loans, and the current economic conditions that may affect the borrower's ability to pay.  Loans are charged-off against the allowance for loan losses when management believes that collectability of the principal is unlikely. While management uses the best information available to make its evaluations, future adjustments to the allowance may be necessary if there are significant changes in economic conditions or the other factors relied upon.


2019


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The allowance for loan losses consists of specific and general components.  The specific component relates to loans that meet the definition of impaired.  The general component covers the remaining loans and is based on historical loss experience adjusted for qualitative factors such as delinquency trends, loan growth, economic elements and local market conditions.  These same policies are applied to all segments of loans. In addition, regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination processes, periodically review the Company's allowance for loan losses, and may require the Company to make additions to the allowance based on their judgment about information available to them at the time of their examinations.

The following tables detail the changes in the allowance for loan losses by segment for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and 2017.2018.
Three Months Ended June 30, 2018Three Months Ended March 31, 2019
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Beginning balance$3,582
 $1,853
 $320
 $186
 $10,442
 $82
 $16,465
$3,508
 $2,384
 $250
 $171
 $10,301
 $75
 $16,689
Charge-offs(13) 
 
 
 
 
 (13)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Recoveries51
 
 3
 5
 4
 3
 66
21
 
 3
 20
 4
 
 48
Provision (1)
53
 58
 (19) (9) (77) (6) 
(1) 213
 (17) (29) (176) 10
 
Ending balance$3,673
 $1,911
 $304
 $182
 $10,369
 $79
 $16,518
$3,528
 $2,597
 $236
 $162
 $10,129
 $85
 $16,737
                          
Three Months Ended June 30, 2017Three Months Ended March 31, 2018
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Beginning balance$3,800
 $2,914
 $315
 $447
 $8,848
 $103
 $16,427
$3,866
 $2,213
 $319
 $186
 $9,770
 $76
 $16,430
Charge-offs(133) 
 
 
 
 
 (133)(195) 
 
 (1) 
 
 (196)
Recoveries81
 95
 1
 7
 3
 5
 192
59
 
 4
 6
 3
 9
 81
Provision (1)
54
 (457) 34
 (82) 456
 (5) 
(148) (360) (3) (5) 669
 (3) 150
Ending balance$3,802
 $2,552
 $350
 $372
 $9,307
 $103
 $16,486
$3,582
 $1,853
 $320
 $186
 $10,442
 $82
 $16,465
             
Six Months Ended June 30, 2018
  Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Beginning balance$3,866
 $2,213
 $319
 $186
 $9,770
 $76
 $16,430
Charge-offs(208) 
 
 (1) 
 
 (209)
Recoveries110
 
 7
 11
 7
 12
 147
Provision (1)
(95) (302) (22) (14) 592
 (9) 150
Ending balance$3,673
 $1,911
 $304
 $182
 $10,369
 $79
 $16,518
             
Six Months Ended June 30, 2017
  Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Beginning balance$3,881
 $2,639
 $317
 $478
 $8,697
 $100
 $16,112
Charge-offs(193) 
 
 
 
 
 (193)
Recoveries140
 398
 2
 15
 6
 6
 567
Provision (1)
(26) (485) 31
 (121) 604
 (3) 
Ending balance$3,802
 $2,552
 $350
 $372
 $9,307
 $103
 $16,486
(1)The negative provisions for the various segments are related to the decline in outstanding balances in each of those portfolio segments during the time periods disclosed and/or improvement in the credit quality factors related to those portfolio segments.

2120


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following tables present a breakdown of the allowance for loan losses disaggregated on the basis of impairment analysis method by segment as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017.2018.
June 30, 2018March 31, 2019
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Ending balance:                          
Individually evaluated for impairment$
 $
 $
 $16
 $109
 $
 $125
$14
 $
 $
 $
 $96
 $
 $110
Collectively evaluated for impairment3,673
 1,911
 304
 166
 10,260
 79
 16,393
3,514
 2,597
 236
 162
 10,033
 85
 16,627
Total$3,673
 $1,911
 $304
 $182
 $10,369
 $79
 $16,518
$3,528
 $2,597
 $236
 $162
 $10,129
 $85
 $16,737
                          
December 31, 2017December 31, 2018
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Ending balance:                          
Individually evaluated for impairment$
 $
 $
 $21
 $118
 $
 $139
$15
 $
 $
 $
 $100
 $
 $115
Collectively evaluated for impairment3,866
 2,213
 319
 165
 9,652
 76
 16,291
3,493
 2,384
 250
 171
 10,201
 75
 16,574
Total$3,866
 $2,213
 $319
 $186
 $9,770
 $76
 $16,430
$3,508
 $2,384
 $250
 $171
 $10,301
 $75
 $16,689
The following tables present the recorded investment in loans, exclusive of unamortized fees and costs, disaggregated on the basis of impairment analysis method by segment as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018.
June 30, 2018March 31, 2019
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Ending balance:                          
Individually evaluated for impairment$990
 $
 $116
 $188
 $833
 $
 $2,127
$976
 $
 $100
 $39
 $712
 $
 $1,827
Collectively evaluated for impairment325,830
 182,681
 49,563
 13,671
 955,977
 6,524
 1,534,246
365,678
 270,322
 48,829
 13,684
 1,044,210
 6,758
 1,749,481
Total$326,820
 $182,681
 $49,679
 $13,859
 $956,810
 $6,524
 $1,536,373
$366,654
 $270,322
 $48,929
 $13,723
 $1,044,922
 $6,758
 $1,751,308
December 31, 2017December 31, 2018
  Real Estate      Real Estate    
Commercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other TotalCommercial Construction and Land 1-4 Family Residential Home Equity Commercial Consumer and Other Total
Ending balance:                          
Individually evaluated for impairment$
 $
 $91
 $193
 $338
 $
 $622
$1,029
 $
 $106
 $41
 $752
 $
 $1,928
Collectively evaluated for impairment347,482
 207,451
 50,953
 13,618
 885,776
 6,363
 1,511,643
357,734
 245,810
 48,946
 14,428
 1,049,273
 6,211
 1,722,402
Total$347,482
 $207,451
 $51,044
 $13,811
 $886,114
 $6,363
 $1,512,265
$358,763
 $245,810
 $49,052
 $14,469
 $1,050,025
 $6,211
 $1,724,330


2221


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


5. Derivatives

The Company has entered into various interest rate swaps as part of its interest rate risk management strategy. The Company uses interest rate swap agreements to manage the interest rate risk relatedits exposures to the variability in interest payments due to changesinterest rate movements. The interest rate swaps involve the receipt of variable amounts from a counterparty in exchange for the Company making fixed payments. The Company has three interest rates. Therate swaps hedging the variable interest payments on certain borrowings and customer deposits. In January 2019, the Company entered into two forward-startingadditional interest rate swap transactionsswaps to effectively convert variablehedge the interest payments of rolling fixed-rate three-month funding consisting of FHLB advances or brokered deposits. These interest rate debt instruments to fixed rate instruments. These two swap transactionsswaps are designated as cash flow hedges of the changes in LIBOR, the benchmark interest rate being hedged, associated with the interest payments on $50,000 of debt instruments. In January 2018, the Company entered into an interest rate swap agreement that effectively converts certain customer deposits with variable rates based on the federal funds upper target rate to fixed rate instruments. This swap transaction has a notional amount of $60,000 with a forward-starting date in December 2018 and is designated as a cash flow hedge of the risk of changes in total cash flows paid on certain customer deposits. hedges.

The Company is exposed to credit risk in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to the interest rate swaps, which is minimized by collateral-pledging provisions in the agreements. Derivative contracts are executed with a Credit Support Annex, which is a bilateral ratings-sensitive agreement that requires collateral postings at established credit threshold levels. These agreements protect the interests of the Company and its counterparties should either party suffer a credit rating deterioration. As of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017,2018, the Company pledged $0$1,780 and $210,$0, respectively, of collateral to the counterparty in the form of cash on deposit with a third party. The Company's counterparty was required to pledge $3,160$720 and $980$2,410 at June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017,2018, respectively. The Company estimates there will be approximately $37 of cash receipts and reclassification$391 reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to interest expense through the 12 months ending June 30, 2019.March 31, 2020. Interest rate swaps with a total notional amount of $70,000 were terminated in 2015, subject to termination fees totaling $541. The termination fees are being reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to interest expense over the remaining life of the underlying cash flows through June 2020. Approximately $95 of termination fees will be reclassified to interest expense through the 12 months ended June 30, 2019.

The table below identifies the balance sheet category and fair values of the Company's derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017.2018.
  
Notional
Amount
 Fair Value 
Balance Sheet
Category
 Weighted Average Receive Rate Weighted Average Pay Rate Maturity
June 30, 2018            
Interest rate swap $30,000
 $360
 Other Assets 2.64% 2.52% 9/21/2020
Interest rate swap(1)
 20,000
 1,625
 Other Assets 
 4.81% 9/30/2026
Interest rate swap(2)
 60,000
 1,408
 Other Assets 
 2.31% 12/31/2025
December 31, 2017            
Interest rate swap $30,000
 $(86) Other Liabilities 1.95% 2.52% 9/21/2020
Interest rate swap(1)
 20,000
 895
 Other Assets 
 4.81% 9/30/2026
(1)This swap is a forward-starting swap with a weighted average pay rate of 4.81 percent beginning September 30, 2018. No interest payments are required related to this swap until December 30, 2018.
(2)This swap is a forward-starting swap with a weighted average pay rate of 2.31 percent beginning December 31, 2018. No interest payments are required related to this swap until January 31, 2019.

  
Notional
Amount
 Fair Value 
Balance Sheet
Category
 Receive Floating Rate Pay Fixed Rate Maturity
March 31, 2019            
Interest rate swap $30,000
 $97
 Other Assets 2.92% 2.52% 9/21/2020
Interest rate swap 20,000
 712
 Other Assets 5.64% 4.81% 9/30/2026
Interest rate swap 60,000
 (605) Other Liabilities 2.50% 2.31% 12/31/2025
Interest rate swap 25,000
 (375) Other Liabilities 2.70% 2.57% 2/8/2024
Interest rate swap 25,000
 (544) Other Liabilities 2.78% 2.62% 1/8/2026
December 31, 2018            
Interest rate swap $30,000
 $221
 Other Assets 3.10% 2.52% 9/21/2020
Interest rate swap 20,000
 1,199
 Other Assets 5.58% 4.81% 9/30/2026
Interest rate swap 60,000
 443
 Other Assets 2.50% 2.31% 12/31/2025
The following table identifies the pre-tax gains or losses recognized on the Company's derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges for the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and 2017.2018.
      Reclassified from AOCI into Income
  Amount of Pre-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI 
     Amount of Loss
  Six Months Ended June 30,   Six Months Ended June 30,
  2018 2017 Category 2018 2017
Interest rate swaps $2,548
 (347) Interest Expense $(82) (223)
      Reclassified from AOCI into Income
  Amount of Pre-tax Gain (Loss) Recognized in OCI 
     Amount of Gain (Loss)
  Three Months Ended March 31,   Three Months Ended March 31,
  2019 2018 Category 2019 2018
Interest rate swaps $(2,441) 1,545
 Interest Expense $114
 (60)


2322


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


6.  Income Taxes

On December 22, 2017, Public Law 115-97, commonly known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Tax Act), was signed into law. The Tax Act reduced the federal corporate income tax rate from the previous maximum rate of 35 percent to 21 percent. The lower federal corporate income tax rate became effective for the Company on January 1, 2018. The enactment of the legislation and the reduction in the federal income tax rate resulted in a revaluation of deferred tax assets and liabilities in December 2017.

Net deferred tax assets consisted of the following as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018.  
June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
Deferred tax assets:      
Allowance for loan losses$4,129
 $4,108
$4,184
 $4,172
Net unrealized losses on securities available for sale2,864
 902
1,457
 2,708
Intangibles
 101
Net unrealized losses on interest rate swaps209
 
Lease liability2,446
 
Accrued expenses260
 176
134
 346
Restricted stock compensation335
 544
375
 704
State net operating loss carryforward1,458
 1,379
1,053
 1,021
Capital loss carryforward3
 
Other76
 86
67
 67
9,122
 7,296
9,928
 9,018
Deferred tax liabilities:      
Right-of-use asset2,387
 
Net deferred loan fees and costs186
 193
177
 183
Net unrealized gains on interest rate swaps798
 139

 429
Premises and equipment711
 792
751
 694
Other143
 148
183
 173
1,838
 1,272
3,498
 1,479
Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance7,284
 6,024
6,430
 7,539
Valuation allowance(1,458) (1,379)(1,056) (1,021)
Net deferred tax assets$5,826
 $4,645
$5,374
 $6,518
The Company has recorded a valuation allowance against the tax effect of capital loss and state net operating loss carryforwards, as management believes it is more likely than not that these carryforwards will expire without being utilized. The state net operating loss carryforwards expire in 20192020 and thereafter. The capital loss carryforward expires in 2022.


2423


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


7.  Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table summarizes the changes in the balances of each component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and 2017.

2018.
 Unrealized Unrealized Accumulated Unrealized Unrealized Accumulated
 Gains Gains Other Gains Gains Other
 (Losses) on (Losses) on Comprehensive (Losses) on (Losses) on Comprehensive
 Securities Derivatives Income (Loss) Securities Derivatives Income (Loss)
Balance, December 31, 2016 $(1,172) $130
 $(1,042)
Balance, December 31, 2018 $(8,123) $1,309
 $(6,814)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 2,372
 (215) 2,157
 3,688
 (1,831) 1,857
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (265) 138
 (127) 66
 (86) (20)
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) 2,107
 (77) 2,030
 3,754
 (1,917) 1,837
Balance, June 30, 2017 $935
 $53
 $988
Balance, March 31, 2019 $(4,369) $(608) $(4,977)
            
Balance, December 31, 2017 $(2,237) $345
 $(1,892) $(2,237) $345
 $(1,892)
Transfer of securities held to maturity to securities available for sale 273
 
 273
 273
 
 273
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications (6,143) 1,911
 (4,232) (5,225) 1,159
 (4,066)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (7) 60
 53
 (25) 44
 19
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) (5,877) 1,971
 (3,906) (4,977) 1,203
 (3,774)
Reclassification of stranded tax effects (475) 105
 (370) (475) 105
 (370)
Balance, June 30, 2018 $(8,589) $2,421
 $(6,168)
Balance, March 31, 2018 $(7,689) $1,653
 $(6,036)
8.  Commitments and Contingencies

Financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk: The Company is party to financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of its customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit.  These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets. The Company's exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Company uses the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations that it uses for on-balance-sheet instruments.  The Company's commitments consisted of the following approximate amounts as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017.2018. 
June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
Commitments to extend credit$657,434
 $617,949
$646,762
 $641,581
Standby letters of credit4,848
 5,996
6,112
 6,631
$662,282
 $623,945
$652,874
 $648,212
West Bank previously executed Mortgage Partnership Finance (MPF) Master Commitments (Commitments) with the FHLB of Des Moines to deliver residential mortgage loans and to guarantee the payment of any realized losses that exceed the FHLB's first loss account for mortgages delivered under the Commitments. West Bank receives credit enhancement fees from the FHLB for providing this guarantee and continuing to assist with managing the credit risk of the MPF Program residential mortgage loans. At June 30, 2018, the liability represented by the present value of the credit enhancement fees less any expected losses in the mortgages delivered under the Commitments was approximately $41. The outstanding balance of mortgage loans sold under the MPF Program was $86,651$75,623 and $94,292$78,024 at June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017,2018, respectively.

Contractual commitments: The Company had remaining commitments to invest in qualified affordable housing projects totaling $4,707$2,275 and $6,130$4,421 as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017,2018, respectively.

Contingencies: Neither the Company nor West Bank is a party, and no property of these entities is subject, to any material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to West Bank's business. The Company does not know of any proceeding contemplated by a governmental authority against the Company or West Bank.

2524


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


9. Leases

Effective January 1, 2019, the Company adopted ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). As of March 31, 2019, the Company leases real estate for its main office, six branch offices, one loan production office and office space for operations departments under various operating lease agreements. The lease agreements have maturity dates ranging from May 2021 to February 2033, some of which include options for multiple five- and ten-year extensions. The weighted average remaining life of the lease term for these leases was 8.34 years as of March 31, 2019.

The discount rate used in determining the lease liability for each individual lease was the FHLB fixed advance rate which corresponded with the remaining lease term as of January 1, 2019 for leases that existed at adoption and as of the lease commencement date for leases subsequently entered in to. The weighted average discount rate for leases was 3.18% as of March 31, 2019.

The total operating lease costs were $384 for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The right-of-use asset, included in premises and equipment, and lease liabilities, included in other liabilities, were $9,549 and $9,785 as of March 31, 2019, respectively.

Total estimated rental commitments for the operating leases were as follows as of March 31, 2019.
2019$1,195
20201,594
20211,540
20221,510
20231,518
Thereafter3,873
 $11,230

A reconciliation of the undiscounted cash flows in the maturity analysis above and the lease liability recognized in the consolidated balance sheet as of March 31, 2019, is shown below.
Undiscounted cash flows$11,230
Discount effect of cash flows(1,445)
 $9,785

9.10. Fair Value Measurements

Accounting guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures defines fair value and establishes a framework for measuring the fair value of assets and liabilities using a hierarchy system.  Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants in the market in which the reporting entity transacts business.

The Company's balance sheet contains investment securities available for sale and derivative instruments that are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis.  The three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value is as follows:

Level 1 uses quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2 uses observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

Level 3 uses unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.


25


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The Company's policy is to recognize transfers between Levels at the end of each reporting period, if applicable. There were no transfers between Levels of the fair value hierarchy during the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019.

The following is a description of valuation methodologies used for financial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a recurring basis.

Investment securities available for sale: When available, quoted market prices are used to determine the fair value of investment securities (Level 1). If quoted market prices are not available, the Company determines fair value based on various sources and may apply matrix pricing with observable prices for similar bonds where a price for the identical bond is not observable (Level 2). The fair values of these securities are determined by pricing models that consider observable market data such as interest rate volatilities, LIBOR yield curve, credit spreads, prices from market makers and live trading systems. For the corporate bond portfolio, the Company has elected to use a matrix pricing model as a practical expedient to individual quoted market prices.

Generally, management obtains the fair value of investment securities at the end of each reporting period via a third-party pricing service. Management reviewed the valuation process used by the third party and believed thatthe process was valid. On a quarterly basis, management corroborates the fair values of a randomly selected sample of investment securities by obtaining pricing from an independent investment portfolio management firmfinancial market data vendor and comparing the two sets of fair values. Any significant variances are reviewed and investigated. For a sample of securities, prices are further validated by management with assistance from an independent investment portfolio management firm, by obtaining details of the inputs used by the pricing service. Those inputs were independently tested, and management concluded the fair values were consistent with GAAP requirements and the investment securities were properly classified in the fair value hierarchy.

Derivative instruments: The Company's derivative instruments consist of interest rate swaps, which are accounted for as cash flow hedges. The Company's derivative positions are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and are valued using models generally accepted in the financial services industry and that use actively quoted or observable market input values from external market data providers and/or non-binding broker-dealer quotations. The fair value of the derivatives is determined using discounted cash flow models. These models’ key assumptions include the contractual terms of the respective contract along with significant observable inputs, including interest rates, yield curves, nonperformance risk and volatility.


26


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


The following tables present the balances of financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis by level as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017.2018.

 June 30, 2018 March 31, 2019
 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Financial assets:                
Investment securities available for sale:                
U.S. Treasuries $39,504
 $39,504
 $
 $
State and political subdivisions 175,904
 
 175,904
 
 $88,763
 $
 $88,763
 $
Collateralized mortgage obligations 162,839
 
 162,839
 
 180,856
 
 180,856
 
Mortgage-backed securities 55,030
 
 55,030
 
 60,831
 
 60,831
 
Asset-backed securities 41,462
 
 41,462
 
 30,782
 
 30,782
 
Collateralized loan obligations 19,887
 
 19,887
 
Trust preferred security 2,000
 
 2,000
 
 2,000
 
 2,000
 
Corporate notes 50,054
 
 50,054
 
 50,844
 
 50,844
 
Derivative instruments, interest rate swaps 3,393
 
 3,393
 
 809
 
 809
 
        
Financial liabilities:        
Derivative instruments, interest rate swaps $1,524
 $
 $1,524
 $
 December 31, 2017 December 31, 2018
 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Financial assets:                
Investment securities available for sale:  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
State and political subdivisions $146,313
 $
 $146,313
 $
 $149,156
 $
 $149,156
 $
Collateralized mortgage obligations 159,932
 
 159,932
 
 157,004
 
 157,004
 
Mortgage-backed securities 60,429
 
 60,429
 
 63,378
 
 63,378
 
Asset-backed securities 45,195
 
 45,195
 
 31,903
 
 31,903
 
Trust preferred security 2,006
 
 2,006
 
 1,900
 
 1,900
 
Corporate notes 30,344
 
 30,344
 
 50,417
 
 50,417
 
Derivative instrument, interest rate swap 895
 
 895
 
 1,863
 
 1,863
 
        
Financial liabilities:        
Derivative instrument, interest rate swap $86
 $
 $86
 $
Certain assets are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. That is, they are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances (for example, when there is evidence of impairment).  As of both June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 2017,2018, impaired loans for whichwith a fair value adjustment was recorded were recorded athad a net book value of $0.  Impaired loans are classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy and are evaluated and valued at the lower of cost or fair value when the loan is identified as impaired.  Fair value is measured based on the value of the collateral securing these loans.  The types of collateral vary widely and could include accounts receivables, inventory, a variety of equipment and real estate.  Evaluations of the underlying assets are completed for each impaired loan with a specific reserve. Collateral evaluations are reviewed and discounted as appropriate based on knowledge of the specific type of collateral. In the case of real estate, an independent appraisal may be obtained. Types of discounts considered include aging of receivables, condition of the collateral, potential market for the collateral and estimated disposal costs. These discounts will vary from loan to loan and may be discounted based on management's opinions concerning market developments or the client's business.
 

27


Table of Contents

West Bancorporation, Inc. and Subsidiary
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(unaudited)
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)


GAAP requires disclosure of the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities, including those that are not measured and reported at fair value on a recurring or nonrecurring basis.  The following table presents the carrying amounts and approximate fair values of financial assets and liabilities as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and December 31, 20172018

 June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 March 31, 2019 December 31, 2018
Fair Value Hierarchy Level Carrying Amount Approximate Fair Value Carrying Amount Approximate Fair ValueFair Value Hierarchy Level Carrying Amount Approximate Fair Value Carrying Amount Approximate Fair Value
Financial assets:                
Cash and due from banksLevel 1 $36,964
 $36,964
 $34,952
 $34,952
Level 1 $45,461
 $45,461
 $46,369
 $46,369
Federal funds soldLevel 1 28,139
 28,139
 12,997
 12,997
Level 1 2,078
 2,078
 1,105
 1,105
Investment securities available for saleSee previous table 526,793
 526,793
 444,219
 444,219
Level 2 433,963
 433,963
 453,758
 453,758
Investment securities held to maturityLevel 2 
 
 45,527
 45,890
Federal Home Loan Bank stockLevel 1 9,202
 9,202
 9,174
 9,174
Level 1 11,639
 11,639
 12,037
 12,037
Loans, netLevel 2 1,517,886
 1,495,204
 1,494,070
 1,490,166
Level 2 1,732,093
 1,727,175
 1,705,141
 1,688,700
Accrued interest receivableLevel 1 7,864
 7,864
 7,344
 7,344
Level 1 8,577
 8,577
 7,631
 7,631
Interest rate swapsLevel 2 3,393
 3,393
 895
 895
Level 2 809
 809
 1,863
 1,863
Financial liabilities:                
DepositsLevel 2 $1,891,929
 $1,891,198
 $1,810,813
 $1,810,924
Level 2 $1,908,323
 $1,907,849
 $1,894,529
 $1,893,621
Federal funds purchasedLevel 1 860
 860
 545
 545
Level 1 17,735
 17,735
 19,985
 19,985
Subordinated notes, netLevel 2 20,418
 15,141
 20,412
 15,357
Level 2 20,428
 15,466
 20,425
 15,498
Federal Home Loan Bank advances, netLevel 2 77,124
 77,124
 76,382
 76,382
Level 2 128,247
 128,247
 137,878
 137,878
Long-term debtLevel 2 19,611
 19,562
 22,917
 22,860
Level 2 25,011
 24,977
 27,040
 27,000
Accrued interest payableLevel 1 831
 831
 736
 736
Level 1 1,665
 1,665
 1,317
 1,317
Interest rate swapLevel 2 
 
 86
 86
Interest rate swapsLevel 2 1,524
 1,524
 
 
Off-balance-sheet financial instruments:                
Commitments to extend creditLevel 3 
 
 
 
Level 3 
 
 
 
Standby letters of creditLevel 3 
 
 
 
Level 3 
 
 
 



28


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

"SAFE HARBOR" CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements in this report, other than purely historical information, including estimates, projections, statements relating to the Company’s business plans, objectives and expected operating results, and the assumptions upon which those statements are based, are “forward-looking statements” within the meanings of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). Forward-looking statements may appear throughout this report. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “future,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “strategy,” “plan,” “opportunity,” “will be,” “will likely result,” “will continue” or similar references, or references to estimates, predictions or future events.  Such forward-looking statements are based upon certain underlying assumptions, risks and uncertainties.  Because of the possibility that the underlying assumptions are incorrect or do not materialize as expected in the future, actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements.  Risks and uncertainties that may affect future results include: interest rate risk; competitive pressures; pricing pressures on loans and deposits; changes in credit and other risks posed by the Company’s loan and investment portfolios, including declines in commercial or residential real estate values or changes in the allowance for loan losses dictated by new market conditions or regulatory requirements; actions of bank and nonbank competitors; changes in local, national and international economic conditions; changes in legal and regulatory requirements, limitations and costs; changes in customers’ acceptance of the Company’s products and services; cyber-attacks; unexpected outcomes of existing or new litigation involving the Company; and any other risks described in the “Risk Factors” sections of other reports filed by the Company with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update such forward-looking statements to reflect current or future events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The discussion and analysis of the Company's financial condition and results of operations are based upon the Company's consolidated financial statements that have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of the Company's financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. These estimates are based upon historical experience and on various other assumptions that management believes are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. The estimates and judgments that management believes involve the most complex and subjective estimates and judgments and have the most effect on the Company's reported financial position and results of operations are described as critical accounting policies in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017,2018, as filed with the SEC on March 1, 2018.February 28, 2019. There have been no significant changes in the critical accounting policies or the assumptions and judgments utilized in applying these policies since the year ended December 31, 2017.2018.


29


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This report contains references to financial measures that are not defined in GAAP. Such non-GAAP financial measures include the Company’s presentation of net interest income and net interest margin on a fully taxable equivalent (FTE) basis, and the presentation of the efficiency ratio on an adjusted and FTE basis, excluding certain income and expenses. Management believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to both management and investors to analyze and evaluate the Company’s financial performance. Both measures are considered standard measures of comparison within the banking industry. Additionally, management believes providing measures on an FTE basis enhances the comparability of income arising from taxable and nontaxable sources. Limitations associated with non-GAAP financial measures include the risks that persons might disagree as to the appropriateness of items included in these measures and that different companies might calculate these measures differently. These non-GAAP disclosures should not be considered an alternative to the Company’s GAAP results.

The following table reconciles the non-GAAP financial measures of net interest income and net interest margin on an FTE basis and efficiency ratio on an adjusted and FTE basis to their most directly comparable measures under GAAP.

 Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, Three Months Ended March 31,
 2018 2017 2018 2017 2019 2018
Reconciliation of net interest income and annualized net interest margin on an FTE basis to GAAP:            
Net interest income (GAAP) $15,299
 $15,093
 $30,715
 $29,482
 $15,889
 $15,416
Tax-equivalent adjustment (1)
 236
 597
 525
 1,215
 43
 289
Net interest income on an FTE basis (non-GAAP) $15,535
 $15,690
 $31,240
 $30,697
 15,932
 15,705
Average interest-earning assets $2,044,821
 $1,832,132
 $2,028,846
 $1,789,565
 2,188,567
 2,012,694
Net interest margin on an FTE basis (non-GAAP) 3.05% 3.44% 3.11% 3.46% 2.95% 3.16%
            
Reconciliation of efficiency ratio on an FTE basis to GAAP:            
Net interest income on an FTE basis (non-GAAP) $15,535
 $15,690
 $31,240
 $30,697
 $15,932
 $15,705
Noninterest income 2,023
 2,316
 3,936
 4,476
 2,119
 1,913
Adjustment for realized investment securities (gains) losses, net 25
 (229) 25
 (226)
Plus: losses on disposal of premises and equipment, net 
 15
 
 15
Adjustment for realized investment securities losses, net 88
 
Adjustment for gain on sale of premises (307) 
Adjusted income $17,583
 $17,792
 $35,201
 $34,962
 17,832
 17,618
Noninterest expense $8,958
 $8,172
 $17,245
 $16,215
 9,544
 8,287
Adjustment for write-down of premises (333) 
 (333) 
Adjusted expense $8,625
 $8,172
 $16,912
 $16,215
Efficiency ratio on an adjusted and FTE basis (non-GAAP) (2)
 49.05% 45.93% 48.05% 46.38% 53.52% 47.04%

(1)Computed on a tax-equivalent basis using a federal income tax rate of 21 percent, in 2018 and 35 percent in 2017, adjusted to reflect the effect of the nondeductible interest expense associated with owning tax-exempt securities and loans.
(2)Efficiency ratio expresses noninterest expense as a percent of fully taxable equivalent net interest income and noninterest income, excluding specific noninterest income and expenses.


30


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2018MARCH 31, 2019

OVERVIEW

The following discussion describes the consolidated operations and financial condition of the Company, West Bank and West Bank's wholly owned subsidiaryspecial purpose subsidiaries (which invested in new market tax credit activities in 2018) and WB Funding Corporation (which was liquidated in March 2018). Results of operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 are compared to the results for the same periodsperiod in 20172018, and the consolidated financial condition of the Company as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 is compared to December 31, 20172018. The Company operateshas full service operations in three markets: central Iowa, which is generally the greater Des Moines metropolitan area; eastern Iowa, which is the area including and surrounding Iowa City and Coralville, Iowa; and the Rochester, Minnesota area. In March 2019, the Company expanded into three new Minnesota markets with loan production activities in Owatonna, Mankato and St. Cloud, Minnesota.

As announced on March 4, 2019, the Company's new growth initiative in three select Minnesota markets is expected to cost approximately $3,000 on an annual basis. Eleven employees have been hired in these three markets. It is difficult to project the timing of attracting new business in these markets and, as a result, the time frame it will take to reach break even.

Net income for the three months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 was $6,764$6,899, or $0.41$0.42 per diluted common share, compared to $6,365,$7,384, or $0.39$0.45 per diluted common share, for the three months ended June 30, 2017.March 31, 2018. The Company's annualized return on average assets and return on average equity for the three months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 were 1.271.22 percent and 15.1514.49 percent, respectively, compared to 1.331.42 percent and 14.8616.79 percent, respectively, for the first three months ended June 30, 2017.of 2018.

The increasedecline in net income for the three months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the same period in 20172018 was primarily due to higher net interest income and a decrease in income taxes, partially offset by an increase in noninterest expense, partially offset by higher net interest income, no provision for loan losses and decrease inhigher noninterest income. On December 22, 2017, the Tax Act was signed into law. The Tax Act reduced the federal corporate income tax rate from the previous maximum rate of 35 percent to 21 percent effective for 2018 and future years. The enactment of the legislation and the reduction in the federal income tax rate was the primary driver of the decrease in income taxes for the three months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the same period in 2017.

Net interest income for the three months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 grew $206$473, or 3.1 percent, compared to the three months ended June 30, 2017. The increaseMarch 31, 2018, as the impact of increases in net interest income was primarily due to a $145,792 increasethe average balance and average yield of interest-earning assets exceeded the effect of increases in the average investmentsbalance and a $55,543 increase in average loans outstandingrate paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Average interest-earning assets for the first three months of 2019 were $175,873 higher than the average interest-earning assets for the first three months of 2018. Average interest-bearing liabilities for the three months ended June 30, 2018 compared toMarch 31, 2019 were $194,381 higher than the average interest-bearing liabilities for the three months ended June 30, 2017. DuringMarch 31, 2018. Rising market interest rates in 2018 resulted in increases in both the yield on interest-earning assets and the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities for the first three months ended June 30, 2018, interest expense on deposits increased $2,017of 2019 compared to the first three months ended June 30, 2017, mainly due to a $210,885 increase in average deposit balances and increases to interest rates on various deposit products as a result of rising market rates.2018. The Company recorded no provision for loan losses for each of the three months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017.March 31, 2019 compared to a provision of $150 in the three months ended March 31, 2018.

Noninterest income declined $293increased $206 during the three months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, mainly due to a nonrecurring gain from the sale of the Iowa City branch facility in 2019 and an increase in trust services, partially offset by net realized investment securities gainslosses in 2017.2019 and a decline in service charges and debit card usage fees. Noninterest expense grew $786$1,257 during the three months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the same time period in 2017,2018, primarily due to a write-down of premises and an increaseincreases in salaries and benefits. To meetemployee benefits and FDIC insurance and the changing needsamortization of customers and improve the efficiency of resources, the Company will consolidate the Iowa City and Coralville branchesinvestment in the fall of 2018. Accordingly, the Company recognized a write-down of premises of $333new market tax credit project in 2019.

Total loans outstanding increased $27,000, or 1.6 percent, during the first three months ended June 30, 2018 related toof 2019. Management believes the Iowa City branch facility. Eastern Iowa customersloan pipeline is strong and that loan growth will continue to be servedin all of our markets, including the new markets of Owatonna, Mankato and St. Cloud, Minnesota, during the remainder of 2019. The credit quality of the loan portfolio remained strong, as evidenced by our team at the Coralville branch and through our online and mobile banking platforms.

Net income forCompany's Texas ratio, which was 0.86 percent as of March 31, 2019. As of March 31, 2019, the six months ended June 30, 2018 was $14,148, or $0.86 per diluted common share, compared to $12,471, or $0.76 per diluted common share, for the six months ended June 30, 2017. The Company's annualized return on average assets and return on average equity for the six months ended June 30, 2018 were 1.34 percent and 15.96 percent, respectively, compared to 1.34 percent and 14.83 percent, respectively, for the first six months of 2017.

The increase in net income for the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the same period in 2017 was primarily due to higher net interest income and a decrease in income taxes, partially offset by increases in provisionallowance for loan losses was 0.96 percent of outstanding loans, and noninterest expense, and lower noninterest income.

Net interest income formanagement believed the six months ended June 30, 2018 grew $1,233, or 4.2 percent, comparedallowance was adequate to the six months ended June 30, 2017. The increase in net interest income was primarily due to a $160,592 increase in average investments and a $66,635 increase in average loans outstanding for the first six months of 2018 compared to the first six months of 2017. During the six months ended June 30, 2018, interest expense on deposits increased $3,834 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2017, mainly due to a $270,637 increase in average deposit balances and increases to interest rates on various deposit products as a result of rising market rates. The Company recorded a $150 provision for loanabsorb any losses for the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to no provisioninherent in the six months ended June 30, 2017.loan portfolio as of that date.


31


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Noninterest income declined $540 during the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2017, mainly due to a nonrecurring gain from bank-owned life insurance and net realized investment securities gains in 2017. Noninterest expense grew $1,030 during the six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the same time period in 2017, primarily due to the write-down of premises in 2018 and an increase in salaries and benefits.

Total loans outstanding increased $23,904, or 1.6 percent, during the first six months of 2018. Management believes the loan pipeline is strong and that loan growth will continue in all three of our markets during the remainder of 2018. The credit quality of the loan portfolio remained strong, as evidenced by the Company's Texas ratio, which was 1.07 percent as of June 30, 2018. As of June 30, 2018, the allowance for loan losses was 1.08 percent of outstanding loans, and management believed the allowance was adequate to absorb any losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of that date.

Each quarter throughout the year, the Company's four key performance metrics are compared to those of our identified peer group of 16 Midwestern, publicly traded peer financial institutions. The peer group for 2019 includes BankFinancial Corporation, Farmers Capital Bank First National Corporation, First Business Financial Services, Inc., First Defiance Financial Corp., First Internet Bancorp, First Mid-Illinois Bancshares, Inc., Hills Bancorporation, Horizon Bancorp, Isabella Bank Corporation, Mercantile Bank Corporation, MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc., MutualFirst Financial, Inc., Nicolet Bankshares, Inc., Peoples Bancorp, QCR Holdings, Inc., and Waterstone Financial,Southern Missouri Bancorp, Inc. The members of the peer group are selected based on their business focus, scope and location of operations, size and other considerations. The Company is in the middle of the group in terms of asset size. The group is periodically reviewed, with changes made primarily to reflect merger and acquisition activity. Our goal is to perform at or near the top of these peersthis peer group relative to what we consider to be four key metrics: return on average assets, return on average equity, efficiency ratio and Texas ratio. We believe these measures encompass the factors that define the performance of a community bank. When contrasted with theCompany and peer group's metricsresults for the three months ended March 31, 2018 (latest data available), the Company's metrics for the six months ended June 30, 2018 were better than those of each company in the peer group as shown in the table below, except for four peers that had a higher return on average assets.key financial performance measures are summarized below.
West Bancorporation, Inc.Peer Group Range
Six Months Ended June 30, 2018Three months ended March 31, 2018
Return on average assets1.34%0.77% - 1.58%
Return on average equity15.96%6.80% - 12.55%
Efficiency ratio(1) (2)
48.05%53.84% - 77.67%
Texas ratio(2)
1.07%1.82% - 19.34%
 West Bancorporation, Inc. 
Peer Group Range (3)
 Three Months Ended March 31, 2019 Year ended December 31, 2018 Year ended December 31, 2018
Return on average assets1.22% 1.31% 0.72% - 1.64%
Return on average equity14.49% 15.68% 7.26% - 12.03%
Efficiency ratio(1) (2)
53.52% 48.92% 52.60% - 77.11%
Texas ratio(2)
0.86% 0.93% 1.30% - 20.03%
(1) The efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP financial measure. For further information, refer to the Non-GAAP Financial Measures section of this report.
(2) A lower ratio is more desirable.
(3) The peer group for 2018 included Waterstone Financial Inc., and excluded Southern Missouri Bancorp, Inc. and Bank First National Corporation.

At its meeting on July 25, 2018,April 24, 2019, the Company's Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20$0.21 per common share. The dividend is payable on AugustMay 22, 2018,2019, to stockholders of record on AugustMay 8, 2018.2019.


32


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following table shows selected financial results and measures for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared with the same periodsperiod in 2017.2018. 
Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2018 2017 Change Change % 2018 2017 Change Change %2019 2018 Change Change %
Net income$6,764
 $6,365
 $399
 6.27% $14,148
 $12,471
 $1,677
 13.45%$6,899
 $7,384
 $(485) (6.57)%
Average assets2,140,649
 1,923,893
 216,756
 11.27% 2,121,867
 1,881,831
 240,036
 12.76%2,292,798
 2,102,876
 189,922
 9.03 %
Average stockholders' equity179,100
 171,786
 7,314
 4.26% 178,748
 169,549
 9,199
 5.43%193,128
 178,392
 14,736
 8.26 %
                      
Return on average assets1.27% 1.33% (0.06)%   1.34% 1.34%  %  
1.22% 1.42% (0.20)%  
Return on average equity15.15% 14.86% 0.29 %   15.96% 14.83% 1.13 %  
14.49% 16.79% (2.30)%  
Net interest margin (1)
3.05% 3.44% (0.39)%   3.11% 3.46% (0.35)%  2.95% 3.16% (0.21)%  
Efficiency ratio (1) (2)
49.05% 45.93% 3.12 %   48.05% 46.38% 1.67 %  53.52% 47.04% 6.48 %  
Dividend payout ratio48.18% 45.85% 2.33 %   43.67% 45.40% (1.73)%  
47.24% 39.53% 7.71 %  
Average equity to average assets ratio8.37% 8.93% (0.56)%   8.42% 9.01% (0.59)%  
8.42% 8.48% (0.06)%  
                      
        As of June 30,  As of March 31,  
        2018 2017 Change  2019 2018 Change  
Texas ratio (2)
        1.07% 0.43% 0.64 %  0.86% 1.08% (0.22)%  
Equity to assets ratio        8.30% 9.12% (0.82)%  
8.49% 8.52% (0.03)%  
Tangible common equity ratioTangible common equity ratio       8.30% 9.12% (0.82)%  
8.49% 8.52% (0.03)%  
(1) Amounts are presented on an FTE basis. These are non-GAAP financial measures. For further information, refer to the Non-GAAP Financial Measures section of this report.
(2) A lower ratio is more desirable.

Definitions of ratios:
Return on average assets - annualized net income divided by average assets.
Return on average equity - annualized net income divided by average stockholders' equity.
Net interest margin - annualized tax-equivalent net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
Efficiency ratio - noninterest expense (excluding other real estate owned expense and write-down of premises) divided by noninterest income (excluding net securities gains (losses) and gains/losses on disposition of premises and equipment) plus tax-equivalent net interest income.
Dividend payout ratio - dividends paid to common stockholders divided by net income.
Texas ratio - total nonperforming assets divided by tangible common equity plus the allowance for loan losses.
Equity to assets ratio - equity divided by assets.
Tangible common equity ratio - common equity less intangible assets (none held) divided by tangible assets.



33


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Net Interest Income

The following tables presenttable presents average balances and related interest income or interest expense, with the resulting annualized average yield or rate by category of interest-earning assets or interest-bearing liabilities.  Interest income and the resulting net interest income are shown on an FTE basis.
Data for the three months ended March 31:
Data for the three months ended June 30:              
              
Average Balance Interest Income/Expense Yield/RateAverage Balance Interest Income/Expense Yield/Rate
2018 2017 Change 
Change-
%
 2018 2017 Change 
Change-
%
 2018 2017 Change2019 2018 Change 
Change-
%
 2019 2018 Change 
Change-
%
 2019 2018 Change
Interest-earning assets:                                          
Loans: (1) (2)
                                          
Commercial$321,897
 $333,674
 $(11,777) (3.53)% $3,821
 $3,626
 $195
 5.38 % 4.76% 4.36% 0.40 %$364,264
 $326,710
 $37,554
 11.49 % $4,617
 $3,680
 $937
 25.46 % 5.14% 4.57% 0.57 %
Real estate (3)
1,186,686
 1,117,973
 68,713
 6.15 % 13,344
 12,547
 797
 6.35 % 4.51% 4.50% 0.01 %1,364,088
 1,163,372
 200,716
 17.25 % 15,708
 12,805
 2,903
 22.67 % 4.67% 4.46% 0.21 %
Consumer and other6,854
 8,247
 (1,393) (16.89)% 68
 81
 (13) (16.05)% 3.98% 3.98%  %6,435
 6,549
 (114) (1.74)% 77
 68
 9
 13.24 % 4.89% 4.18% 0.71 %
Total loans1,515,437
 1,459,894
 55,543
 3.80 % 17,233
 16,254
 979
 6.02 % 4.56% 4.47% 0.09 %1,734,787
 1,496,631
 238,156
 15.91 % 20,402
 16,553
 3,849
 23.25 % 4.77% 4.49% 0.28 %
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
Investment securities: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Taxable306,983
 223,795
 83,188
 37.17 % 1,886
 1,239
 647
 52.22 % 2.46% 2.21% 0.25 %320,892
 304,564
 16,328
 5.36 % 2,328
 1,813
 515
 28.41 % 2.90% 2.38% 0.52 %
Tax-exempt (3)
184,142
 121,538
 62,604
 51.51 % 1,477
 1,200
 277
 23.08 % 3.21% 3.95% (0.74)%116,750
 190,160
 (73,410) (38.60)% 866
 1,572
 (706) (44.91)% 2.97% 3.31% (0.34)%
Total investment securities491,125
 345,333
 145,792
 42.22 % 3,363
 2,439
 924
 37.88 % 2.74% 2.82% (0.08)%437,642
 494,724
 (57,082) (11.54)% 3,194
 3,385
 (191) (5.64)% 2.92% 2.74% 0.18 %
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Federal funds sold38,259
 26,905
 11,354
 42.20 % 177
 70
 107
 152.86 % 1.85% 1.04% 0.81 %16,138
 21,339
 (5,201) (24.37)% 98
 81
 17
 20.99 % 2.46% 1.54% 0.92 %
Total interest-earning assets (3)
$2,044,821
 $1,832,132
 $212,689
 11.61 % 20,773
 18,763
 2,010
 10.71 % 4.07% 4.11% (0.04)%$2,188,567
 $2,012,694
 $175,873
 8.74 % 23,694
 20,019
 3,675
 18.36 % 4.39% 4.03% 0.36 %
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Interest-bearing liabilities: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Deposits: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Interest-bearing demand,                                          
savings and money                        ��                 
market$1,245,738
 $1,070,180
 $175,558
 16.40 % 3,203
 1,444
 1,759
 121.81 % 1.03% 0.54% 0.49 %$1,320,548
 $1,213,290
 $107,258
 8.84 % 5,027
 2,541
 2,486
 97.84 % 1.54% 0.85% 0.69 %
Time deposits176,857
 141,530
 35,327
 24.96 % 595
 337
 258
 76.56 % 1.35% 0.96% 0.39 %199,587
 173,010
 26,577
 15.36 % 937
 471
 466
 98.94 % 1.90% 1.10% 0.80 %
Total deposits1,422,595
 1,211,710
 210,885
 17.40 % 3,798
 1,781
 2,017
 113.25 % 1.07% 0.59% 0.48 %1,520,135
 1,386,300
 133,835
 9.65 % 5,964
 3,012
 2,952
 98.01 % 1.59% 0.88% 0.71 %
Other borrowed funds128,646
 141,558
 (12,912) (9.12)% 1,440
 1,292
 148
 11.46 % 4.49% 3.66% 0.83 %186,196
 125,650
 60,546
 48.19 % 1,798
 1,302
 496
 38.10 % 3.92% 4.20% (0.28)%
Total interest-bearing                                          
liabilities$1,551,241
 $1,353,268
 $197,973
 14.63 % 5,238
 3,073
 2,165
 70.45 % 1.35% 0.91% 0.44 %$1,706,331
 $1,511,950
 $194,381
 12.86 % 7,762
 4,314
 3,448
 79.93 % 1.84% 1.16% 0.68 %
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Tax-equivalent net interest income (FTE) (4)
  
  
 $15,535
 $15,690
 $(155) (0.99)%  
  
  
Net interest income (FTE) (4)
Net interest income (FTE) (4)
  
  
 $15,932
 $15,705
 $227
 1.45 %  
  
  
Net interest spread (FTE) 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 2.72% 3.20% (0.48)% 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 2.55% 2.87% (0.32)%
Net interest margin (FTE) (4)
Net interest margin (FTE) (4)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 3.05% 3.44% (0.39)%
Net interest margin (FTE) (4)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 2.95% 3.16% (0.21)%

34


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Data for the six months ended June 30:              
                      
 Average Balance Interest Income/Expense Yield/Rate
 2018 2017 Change 
Change-
%
 2018 2017 Change 
Change-
%
 2018 2017 Change
Interest-earning assets:                     
Loans: (1) (2)
                     
Commercial$324,291
 $334,988
 $(10,697) (3.19)% $7,501
 $7,104
 $397
 5.59 % 4.66% 4.28% 0.38 %
Real estate (3)
1,175,093
 1,096,198
 78,895
 7.20 % 26,149
 24,189
 1,960
 8.10 % 4.49% 4.45% 0.04 %
Consumer and other6,702
 8,265
 (1,563) (18.91)% 136
 163
 (27) (16.56)% 4.08% 3.99% 0.09 %
Total loans1,506,086
 1,439,451
 66,635
 4.63 % 33,786
 31,456
 2,330
 7.41 % 4.52% 4.41% 0.11 %
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
Investment securities: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Taxable305,780
 215,236
 90,544
 42.07 % 3,699
 2,266
 1,433
 63.24 % 2.42% 2.11% 0.31 %
Tax-exempt (3)
187,135
 117,087
 70,048
 59.83 % 3,049
 2,363
 686
 29.03 % 3.26% 4.04% (0.78)%
Total investment securities492,915
 332,323
 160,592
 48.32 % 6,748
 4,629
 2,119
 45.78 % 2.74% 2.79% (0.05)%
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Federal funds sold29,845
 17,791
 12,054
 67.75 % 258
 87
 171
 196.55 % 1.74% 0.98% 0.76 %
Total interest-earning assets (3)
$2,028,846
 $1,789,565
 $239,281
 13.37 % 40,792
 36,172
 4,620
 12.77 % 4.05% 4.08% (0.03)%
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Interest-bearing liabilities: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Deposits: 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Interest-bearing demand,                     
savings and money                     
market$1,229,604
 $1,004,105
 $225,499
 22.46 % 5,744
 2,421
 3,323
 137.26 % 0.94% 0.49% 0.45 %
Time deposits174,944
 129,806
 45,138
 34.77 % 1,066
 555
 511
 92.07 % 1.23% 0.86% 0.37 %
Total deposits1,404,548
 1,133,911
 270,637
 23.87 % 6,810
 2,976
 3,834
 128.83 % 0.98% 0.53% 0.45 %
Other borrowed funds127,156
 144,567
 (17,411) (12.04)% 2,742
 2,499
 243
 9.72 % 4.35% 3.49% 0.86 %
Total interest-bearing                     
liabilities$1,531,704
 $1,278,478
 $253,226
 19.81 % 9,552
 5,475
 4,077
 74.47 % 1.26% 0.86% 0.40 %
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Net interest income (FTE) (4)
  
  
 $31,240
 $30,697
 $543
 1.77 %  
  
  
Net interest spread (FTE) 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 2.79% 3.22% (0.43)%
Net interest margin (FTE) (4)
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 3.11% 3.46% (0.35)%

(1)Average loan balances include nonaccrual loans.  Interest income recognized on nonaccrual loans has been included.
(2)Interest income on loans includes amortization of loan fees and costs and prepayment penalties collected, which are not material.
(3)Tax-exempt income has been adjusted to a tax-equivalent basis using a federal income tax rate of 21 percent in 2018 and 35 percent in 2017 and is adjusted to reflect the effect of the nondeductible interest expense associated with owning tax-exempt investment securities and loans.
(4)Net interest income (FTE) and net interest margin (FTE) are non-GAAP financial measures. For further information, refer to the Non-GAAP Financial Measures section of this report.

The Company's largest component of net income is net interest income, which is the difference between interest earned on interest-earning assets, consisting primarily of loans and investment securities, and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities, consisting of deposits and borrowings. Fluctuations in net interest income can result from the combination of changes in the average balances of asset and liability categories and changes in interest rates. Interest rates earned and paid are affected by general economic conditions, particularly changes in market interest rates, and by competitive factors, government policies and actions of regulatory authorities. The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System increased the targeted federal funds interest rate by 25a total of 100 basis points in each of March and June 2018 and each of March, June and December 2017. We believe the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System will increase2018. The current expectation is for the targeted federal funds interest rate by 25 basis points at least one more timeto be unchanged in 2018.2019.


3534


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Net interest margin is a measure of the net return on interest-earning assets and is computed by dividing annualized tax-equivalent net interest income by total average interest-earning assets for the period. The net interest margin for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 declined 39 and 3521 basis points respectively, compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.March 31, 2018. The primary drivers of the decline in the net interest margin were an increase in interest rates paid on deposits, and an increase in the variable rates paid on other borrowed funds, partially offset by an increase in yield on loans. Also impacting the net interest margin was the declineloans and investments and a decrease in the federal income tax rate to 21 percent in 2018, from 35 percent in 2017, which is used in the calculation of the tax-equivalent interest incomepaid on tax-exempt loans and securities on a non-GAAP basis. The change in the federal income tax rate used in the tax-equivalent adjustment to net interest income accounted for approximately 10 basis points of the decline in net interest margin for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.other borrowed funds. Despite the decline in the net interest margin, tax-equivalent net interest income for the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 increased $543$227 compared to the same time period in 2017.2018. The increase in net interest income for the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the sixthree months ended June 30, 2017March 31, 2018 was largely due to an increase in average outstanding loans, and securities, partially offset by a decrease in average investments, an increase in average deposit balances and an increase in rates on deposits and other borrowed funds. Tax-equivalent net interest income for the three months ended June 30, 2018 declined $155 compared to the same time period in 2017. The decline in net interest income for the three months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2017 was largely due to an increase in average deposit balancesfunds and an increase in rates on deposits and other borrowed funds that exceeded the impact of an increase in average outstanding loans and securities.deposits. Management expects the current interest rate environment to continue to put pressure on the net interest margin throughout the remainder of 2018,2019, particularly if the U.S. Treasury yield curve continues to flatten.remains flat or inverted.

Tax-equivalent interest income on loans increased $979 forFor the three months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2017. For the six months ended June 30, 2018,March 31, 2019, tax-equivalent interest income on loans increased $2,330$3,849 compared to the same time period in 2017.2018. The improvement for both time periods was primarily due to the increase in average loan balances outstanding.outstanding and the average yield on loans. The average yield on loans increased by 9 and 1128 basis points respectively, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, which is less than the increase in the cost of deposits due to the relatively flatflattening of the yield curve. The Company continues to focus on expanding existing and entering into new customer relationships while maintaining strong credit quality. The yield on the Company's loan portfolio is affected by the portfolio's loan mix, the interest rate environment, the effects of competition, the level of nonaccrual loans and reversals of previously accrued interest on charged-off loans. The political and economic environments can also influence the volume of new loan originations and the mix of variable rate versus fixed rate loans.

The average balance of investment securities was higherlower during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 than during the same periodsperiod in 2017 as a result of significant investment purchase activity during2018. The Company periodically evaluates the second half of 2017. The purchase activity in 2017 focused onbond portfolio and may sell lower performing bonds for reinvestment into higher yielding bonds within the existingwith similar risk profileprofiles and was the result of growth in deposits and the reinvestment of proceeds from sales and principal paydowns of investment securities. In certain cases, securities were sold and the funds were reinvested in securities with higher rates while slightly extending the duration, of the portfolio. The change in the federal income tax rate used in the tax-equivalent adjustment of tax-exempt securities accountedor for an approximately 78 basis point reduction in the yield on tax-exempt investment securities for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017. This was offset by improvements of 25 and 31 basis points, respectively, in the yield on taxable investment securities for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.funding loan growth.

The average balance of interest-bearing demand, savings and money market deposits increased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, primarily due to an increase in average balances of money market accounts. In addition, approximately $76,000 of noninterest-bearing accounts were reclassified to interest-bearing accounts in April 2017 as part of a retail deposit product restructuring in which we realigned and simplified the retail checking account products provided to our customers. The average rate paid on interest-bearing demand, savings and money market deposits for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 increased 49 and 4569 basis points respectively, compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.March 31, 2018. The increase in interest expense was primarily due to increasing interest rates on certain money market deposit products in response to increases in the targeted federal funds rate.rate throughout 2018. The average balance of time deposits also increased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the same periodsperiod in 2017. The increase was primarily due to the shift of demand and savings account balances to higher interest rate time deposits.2018. Interest rates on time deposits increased 39 and 3780 basis points respectively, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the same periodsperiod in 2017,2018, primarily due to higher market interest rates paid at the time new and renewed time deposits were issued.


36


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

The average rate paid on other borrowed funds increased 83 and 86 basis points, respectively, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017. The increase in the average rate paid was due to increases in rates for variable rate FHLB advances, subordinated notes and long-term debt. The average balance of other borrowed funds declinedincreased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017,March 31, 2018, primarily due to lower average balances of federal funds purchased and the December 2017 payoff of a $25,000 FHLB advance, partially offset by a $22,000an increase in long-term debtshort-term FHLB funding. The short-term funding also resulted in May 2017.a decrease in the average rate paid on borrowed funds, which declined 28 basis points for the three months ended March 31, 2019 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2018.

Provision for Loan Losses and the Related Allowance for Loan Losses

The provision for loan losses represents charges made to earnings to maintain an adequate allowance for loan losses.  The adequacy of the allowance for loan losses is evaluated quarterly by management and reviewed by the Board of Directors. The allowance for loan losses is management's best estimate of probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio as of the balance sheet date.  Based upon the most recent evaluation, no provision for loan losses was recorded for the three months ended June 30, 2018. TheMarch 31, 2019. A provision recorded for the six months ended June 30, 2018 was $150. No provisionof $150 was recorded for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.March 31, 2018.

Factors considered in establishing an appropriate allowance include: the borrower's financial condition; the value and adequacy of loan collateral; the condition of the local economy and the borrower's specific industry; the levels and trends of loans by segment; and a review of delinquent and classified loans.  The quarterly evaluation focuses on factors such as specific loan reviews, changes in the components of the loan portfolio given the current and forecasted economic conditions, and historical loss experience.  Any one of the following conditions may result in the review of a specific loan: concern about whether the customer's cash flow or net worth is sufficient to repay the loan; delinquency status; criticism of the loan in a regulatory examination; the suspension of interest accrual; or other factors, including whether the loan has other special or unusual characteristics that suggest special monitoring is warranted. The Company's concentration risks include geographic concentration in central and eastern Iowa and southeastern Minnesota. The local economies are composed primarily of service industries and state and county governments.

35


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)


West Bank has a significant portion of its loan portfolio in commercial real estate loans, commercial lines of credit, commercial term loans, and construction and land development loans.  West Bank's typical commercial borrower is a small- or medium-sized, privately owned business entity.  Compared to residential mortgages or consumer loans, commercial loans typically have larger balances, and repayment usually depends on the borrowers' successful business operations.  Commercial loans generally are not fully repaid over the loan period and, thus, may require refinancing or a large payoff at maturity.  When the economy turns downward, commercial borrowers may not be able to repay their loans, and the value of their assets, which are usually pledged as collateral, may decrease rapidly and significantly. 

While management uses available information to recognize losses on loans, further reduction in the carrying amounts of loans may be necessary based on changes in circumstances, changes in the overall economy in the markets we currently serve, or later acquired information.  Identifiable sectors within the general economy are subject to additional volatility, which at any time may have a substantial impact on the loan portfolio.  In addition, regulatory agencies, as integral parts of their examination processes, periodically review the credit quality of the loan portfolio and the level of the allowance for loan losses.  Such agencies may require West Bank to recognize additional losses based on such agencies' review of information available to them at the time of their examinations.
  

37


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

West Bank's policy is to charge off loans when, in management's opinion, a loan or a portion of a loan is deemed uncollectible. Concerted efforts are made to maximize subsequent recoveries.  The following table summarizes the activity in the Company's allowance for loan losses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and 20172018 and related ratios. 
Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
2018 2017 Change 2018 2017 Change2019 2018 Change
Balance at beginning of period$16,465
 $16,427
 $38
 $16,430
 $16,112
 $318
$16,689
 $16,430
 $259
Charge-offs(13) (133) 120
 (209) (193) (16)
 (196) 196
Recoveries66
 192
 (126) 147
 567
 (420)48
 81
 (33)
Net (charge-offs) recoveries53
 59
 (6) (62) 374
 (436)48
 (115) 163
Provision for loan losses charged to operations
 
 
 150
 
 150

 150
 (150)
Balance at end of period$16,518
 $16,486
 $32
 $16,518
 $16,486
 $32
$16,737
 $16,465
 $272
                
Average loans outstanding$1,515,437
 $1,459,894
   $1,506,086
 $1,439,451
  $1,734,787
 $1,496,631
  
                
Ratio of annualized net (charge-offs) recoveries during the period to average loans outstanding0.01% 0.02%   (0.01)% 0.05%  0.01% (0.03)%  
                
Ratio of allowance for loan losses to average loans outstanding1.09% 1.13%   1.10 % 1.15%  0.96% 1.10 %  
                
Ratio of allowance for loan losses to total loans at end of period1.08% 1.15%   1.08 % 1.15%  0.96% 1.10 %  
In general, the growth rate of the U.S. economy is growing at a moderate pace. Average monthlyappears to be decelerating, but remains relatively stable. Monthly job growth for the first sixthree months of 2018 was2019 averaged approximately 215,000180,000 based on preliminary estimates, while thecompared to an average of over 220,000 in all of 2018. The national unemployment rate remained low at 4.03.8 percent as of June 30,March 31, 2019. Gross domestic product increased at an annual rate of 2.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2018. Activity in the housing market continues at a moderate pace. Short-term interest rates are currently expected to continue to gradually rise.remain unchanged in 2019. Based on the current economic indicators, the Company decided to maintainmake no changes to the economic factors within the allowance for loan losses evaluation at the same levels used in 2017.evaluation. In the first sixthree months of 2018,2019, the Company continued to use experience factors based on the highest losses calculated over a rolling 12-, 16-, or 20-quarter period. The portion of the allowance for loan losses related to loans collectively evaluated for impairment increased $102$53 to a total of $16,393,$16,627, or 1.070.95 percent, as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to $16,291,$16,574, or 1.080.96 percent, as of December 31, 2017.2018. Management believed the resulting allowance for loan losses as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 was adequate to absorb any losses inherent in the loan portfolio at the end of the quarter.


3836


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Noninterest Income

The following tables showtable shows the variance from the prior year in the noninterest income categories shown in the Consolidated Statements of Income.  In addition, accounts within the “Other income” category that represent a significant portion of the total or a significant variance are shown below.
Three Months Ended June 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
Noninterest income:2018 2017 Change Change %2019 2018 Change Change %
Service charges on deposit accounts$627
 $631
 $(4) (0.63)%$611
 $649
 $(38) (5.86)%
Debit card usage fees433
 458
 (25) (5.46)%375
 399
 (24) (6.02)%
Trust services575
 436
 139
 31.88 %483
 445
 38
 8.54 %
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance152
 163
 (11) (6.75)%152
 158
 (6) (3.80)%
Realized investment securities gains (losses), net(25) 229
 (254) (110.92)%
Realized investment securities losses, net(88) 
 (88) N/A
Other income:     
  
     
  
Discount on purchased income tax credits15
 65
 (50) (76.92)%
Gain on sale of other assets
 88
 (88) (100.00)%
Gain on sale of premises307
 
 307
 N/A
All other income246
 246
 
  %279
 262
 17
 6.49 %
Total other income261
 399
 (138) (34.59)%586
 262
 324
 123.66 %
Total noninterest income$2,023
 $2,316
 $(293) (12.65)%$2,119
 $1,913
 $206
 10.77 %
       
Six Months Ended June 30,
Noninterest income:2018 2017 Change Change %
Service charges on deposit accounts$1,276
 $1,231
 $45
 3.66 %
Debit card usage fees832
 898
 (66) (7.35)%
Trust services1,020
 828
 192
 23.19 %
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance310
 317
 (7) (2.21)%
Gain from bank-owned life insurance
 307
 (307) (100.00)%
Realized investment securities gains (losses), net(25) 226
 (251) (111.06)%
Other income:     
  
Discount on purchased income tax credits27
 81
 (54) (66.67)%
Gain on sale of other assets
 88
 (88) (100.00)%
All other income496
 500
 (4) (0.80)%
Total other income523
 669
 (146) (21.82)%
Total noninterest income$3,936
 $4,476
 $(540) (12.06)%
The increase in service chargesnet losses on deposit accounts forsales of investment securities during 2019 primarily resulted from the six months ended June 30, 2018 comparedCompany's strategy to the six months ended June 30, 2017 was driven primarily by the March and April 2017 realignment and simplificationreposition certain components of the retail checking account products provided to our customers. Duringinvestment portfolio into higher yielding securities without increasing the threerisk profile of the portfolio and six months ended June 30, 2018, nonsufficient funds fees declined $35 and $58, respectively, and debit card usage fees declined $25 and $66, respectively, compared to the same time periods in 2017. These declines are consistent with recent trends.

Revenue from trust services was higher during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 due to the combination of higher amounts of one-time estate fees and asset growth.

Gain from bank-owned life insurance was recognizedliquidity needed for the six months ended June 30, 2017 as the result of a single policy event.

loan funding. The Company recognizes revenue from discounts on purchased transferable State of Iowa income tax credits. The Company reviews opportunities to acquire transferable State of Iowa income tax credits at favorable discounts as they are presented and as they are aligned with our projected ability to utilize them. The Company expects to recognize total income from discounts on purchased tax credits of approximately $50 for the year ended December 31, 2018.

Gainrecognized a gain on sale of other assets for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 included a nonrecurring gainpremises during 2019 related to the final payment received from the 2015 sale of SmartyPig, LLC.

39


Tablethe Iowa City branch facility. The Company consolidated the Iowa City and Coralville branches in the fourth quarter of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
2018.

Noninterest Expense

The following tables showtable shows the variance from the prior year in the noninterest expense categories shown in the Consolidated Statements of Income. In addition, accounts within the “Other expenses” category that represent a significant portion of the total or a significant variance are shown below.
Three Months Ended June 30,Three Months Ended March 31,
Noninterest expense:2018 2017 Change Change %2019 2018 Change Change %
Salaries and employee benefits$4,775
 $4,449
 $326
 7.33 %$5,460
 $4,513
 $947
 20.98 %
Occupancy1,258
 1,131
 127
 11.23 %1,233
 1,223
 10
 0.82 %
Data processing674
 708
 (34) (4.80)%680
 676
 4
 0.59 %
FDIC insurance expense165
 150
 15
 10.00 %
FDIC insurance219
 162
 57
 35.19 %
Professional fees178
 248
 (70) (28.23)%234
 234
 
  %
Director fees261
 246
 15
 6.10 %251
 249
 2
 0.80 %
Write-down of premises333
 
 333
 N/A
Other expenses:     
  
     
  
Marketing50
 51
 (1) (1.96)%47
 45
 2
 4.44 %
Business development269
 246
 23
 9.35 %268
 218
 50
 22.94 %
Insurance expense85
 88
 (3) (3.41)%93
 92
 1
 1.09 %
Charitable contributions75
 
 75
 N/A
45
 75
 (30) (40.00)%
Postage and courier71
 80
 (9) (11.25)%73
 69
 4
 5.80 %
Subscriptions80
 66
 14
 21.21 %91
 91
 
  %
Trust96
 110
 (14) (12.73)%97
 93
 4
 4.30 %
Consulting fees60
 92
 (32) (34.78)%62
 65
 (3) (4.62)%
Low income housing projects amortization130
 104
 26
 25.00 %71
 134
 (63) (47.01)%
New market tax credit project amortization230
 
 230
 N/A
All other398
 403
 (5) (1.24)%390
 348
 42
 12.07 %
Total other1,314
 1,240
 74
 5.97 %1,467
 1,230
 237
 19.27 %
Total noninterest expense$8,958
 $8,172
 $786
 9.62 %$9,544
 $8,287
 $1,257
 15.17 %
       
Six Months Ended June 30,
Noninterest expense:2018 2017 Change Change %
Salaries and employee benefits$9,288
 $8,786
 $502
 5.71 %
Occupancy2,481
 2,228
 253
 11.36 %
Data processing1,350
 1,396
 (46) (3.30)%
FDIC insurance327
 363
 (36) (9.92)%
Professional fees412
 541
 (129) (23.84)%
Director fees510
 457
 53
 11.60 %
Write-down of premises333
 
 333
 N/A
Other expenses:     
  
Marketing95
 119
 (24) (20.17)%
Business development487
 418
 69
 16.51 %
Insurance expense177
 178
 (1) (0.56)%
Charitable contributions150
 
 150
 N/A
Postage and courier140
 166
 (26) (15.66)%
Subscriptions171
 131
 40
 30.53 %
Trust189
 215
 (26) (12.09)%
Consulting fees125
 153
 (28) (18.30)%
Low income housing projects amortization264
 220
 44
 20.00 %
All other746
 844
 (98) (11.61)%
Total other2,544
 2,444
 100
 4.09 %
Total noninterest expense$17,245
 $16,215
 $1,030
 6.35 %

4037


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Salaries and employee benefits increased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 when compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, mainly asMarch 31, 2018, partially due to our expansion in Minnesota. In the first quarter of 2019, West Bank added 11 full time employees for our new loan production activities in three Minnesota markets, of which nine were hired in March 2019. As a result, ofsalaries and employee benefits is expected to increase in subsequent quarters due to subsequent quarters reflecting salaries and employee benefits for the new employees for the full quarter. Other increases in benefit costs, salaries and related payroll taxes,employee benefits were normal operating increases. Occupancy expense is also expected to increase during the remainder of 2019, as three locations for the new loan production offices in Minnesota have been identified and additional payroll taxesleases have been signed for either three or five year terms. For the first three months of 2019, compensation, professional fees and occupancy costs related to the vesting of restricted stock units.Company's new growth strategy totaled $453 on a pre-tax basis.

When compared with the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, occupancy costsFDIC insurance expense increased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, partially due to a periodic indexed rent adjustment in accordance with the terms of the lease for the Company's main office.

Data processing primarily includes fees paid for our core applications systems, ongoing enhancement and monitoring tools for maintaining security, and one-time costs associated with implementation of new applications. Data processing expense declined for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared to the same time periods in 2017, primarily because of varying one-time costs associated with the implementation of new applications in each period.

FDIC insurance expense declined for the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2017.March 31, 2018. The FDIC assessment rate calculation includes a series of risk-based factors. As a result ofChanges in West Bank's loan mix and asset growth have had the May 2017 capital injection of $40,000 intomost significant impact on the FDIC insurance assessment compared to last year. In January 2019, West Bank our capital ratio component improved enough to reduce the assessment rate to the minimum base assessment level establishedwas notified by the FDIC. Management expectsFDIC regarding eligibility for small bank assessment credits. The FDIC will automatically apply small bank assessment credits to offset regular deposit insurance assessments for assessment periods where the assessment rate to remainDeposit Insurance Fund reserve ratio is at or nearabove 1.38 percent until all credits are used. The Deposit Insurance Fund reserve ratio was 1.36 percent as of December 31, 2018. West Bank's small bank assessment credit is $498. When the minimum level during 2018.Deposit Insurance Fund reserve ratio reaches 1.38 percent, the credits will be applied, and our FDIC insurance expense increased for the three months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the same period in 2017 due to growth in average assets.

Professional fees declined for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the same time periods in 2017, primarily due to lower legal fees at West Bank and one-time costs incurred in 2017 associated with the preparation and adoption of the West Bancorporation, Inc. 2017 Equity Incentive Plan.

Director fees increased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 when compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, mainly due to higher stock-based compensation costs and an increase in annual retainer fees effective April 2018.will be reduced.

The Company recognized a $333 write-down of premises during the three and six months ended June 30, 2018amortization expense related to the Iowa City branch facility. The Company plans to consolidate the Iowa City and Coralville branchesan investment in a new market tax credit project in the fallfirst quarter of 2018.

2019. The increase in business developmentamortization is expected to be a recurring expense forthrough the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 compared toseven-year term of the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 was the result of additional sponsorships of community events and efforts to cultivate new and expanded customer relationships.

Charitable contributions increased for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018 compared to the same time periods in 2017 due to the timing of contributions to the West Bancorporation Foundation.tax credit.

Income Tax Expense

The Company recorded income tax expense of $1,600 (19.1 percent of pre-tax income) and $3,108 (18.0$1,565 (18.5 percent of pre-tax income) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2018, respectively,March 31, 2019, compared with $2,872 (31.1 percent of pre-tax income) and $5,272 (29.7$1,508 (17.0 percent of pre-tax income) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, respectively. The decline in the percentage of income tax expense to pre-tax income was the result of the enactment of the Tax Act on December 22, 2017. This legislation lowered the federal corporate income tax rate to 21 percent beginning in 2018 from a maximum rate of 35 percent in 2017.March 31, 2018. The Company's consolidated income tax rate differs from the federal statutory income tax rate in each respective period, primarily due to tax-exempt interest income, the tax-exempt increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance, tax-exempt gain on bank-owned life insurance, disallowed interest expense, and state income taxes.

In addition, for the sixthree months ended June 30,March 31, 2019 and 2018, and 2017, a tax benefit of $261$37 and $244,$238, respectively, was recorded as a result of the increase in fair value of restricted stock over the vesting period. The tax raterates for the first sixthree months of 2019 and 2018 and 2017 waswere also impacted by year-to-date federal low income housing tax credits and new markets tax credit of approximately $250$316 and $205,$125, respectively.


41


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

FINANCIAL CONDITION

The Company had total assets of $2,197,166$2,312,091 as of June 30, 2018, an increase of 3.9 percentMarch 31, 2019, compared to total assets of $2,114,377$2,296,568 as of December 31, 2017. The most significant changes2018. Fluctuations in the balance sheet wereincluded increases in loans, premises and equipment, other liabilities and deposits, and decreases in investments loans and deposits.FHLB advances. A summary of changes in the balance sheet components is provided below.

Investment Securities

On January 1, 2018, the Company elected to transfer all securities classified as held to maturity to available for sale. At the date of reclassification, the held to maturity securities portfolio was carried at an amortized cost of $45,527. The reclassification of securities between categories was accounted for at fair value. At the date of reclassification, the securities had a fair value of $45,890 and unrealized holding gains of $273, which were recorded net of tax in other comprehensive income. The transfer enhanced liquidity and increased flexibility with regard to asset-liability management and balance sheet composition.

The balance of investment securities available for sale subsequent to the transfer of held to maturity securities, increaseddeclined by $37,047$19,795 during the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018. U.S. Treasuries increased $39,504 and corporate notes increased $19,710 during the six months ended June 30, 2018, primarily due to purchases of securities, which were funded by growth in deposits and securities sales.March 31, 2019. State and political subdivision securities declined by $15,936$60,393 during the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018, primarily due toMarch 31, 2019. State and political subdivision securities were sold during the salefirst quarter of securities2019, and the proceeds were used for liquidity purposes or for reinvestment in higher yielding bonds with minimal impact oninto collateralized mortgage obligations which was part of a reinvestment strategy to improve yield without significantly changing the portfolio's risk profile and duration.of the portfolio. Government agency guaranteed collateralized mortgage obligations mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities declinedincreased by a total of $6,225$23,852. In addition, the Company invested $19,887 in collateralized loan obligations (CLOs) during the six months ended June 30, 2018, primarily duefirst quarter of 2019. CLOs are floating rate debt securities backed by pools of senior secured commercial loans to normal principal paydowns. The market valuea diverse group of the investment portfolio declined $7,803 during the six months ended June 30, 2018.companies across a broad spectrum of industries. The Company believedbelieves that its CLO portfolio, consisting entirely of variable rate securities, supports the unrealized losses on investments available for sale as of June 30, 2018 were due toCompany’s interest rate risk management strategy by lowering the extension risk and market conditions rather than reduced estimated cash flows.duration risk inherent to certain fixed rate investment securities. At March 31, 2019, the Company owned AAA and AA rated CLOs and did not own CLOs rated below AA.

As of June 30, 2018,March 31, 2019, approximately 5063 percent of the available for sale investment securities portfolio consisted of government agency guaranteed collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities. Management believes these securities provide relatively good yields, have little to no credit risk and provide fairly consistent cash flows.


38


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Loans and Nonperforming Assets

Loans outstanding increased $23,904,$27,000 from $1,510,500$1,721,830 as of December 31, 20172018 to $1,534,404$1,748,830 as of June 30, 2018.March 31, 2019. Changes in the loan portfolio during the first sixthree months of 20182019 included an increaseincreases of $70,696$24,512 in construction, land and land development loans and $7,891 in commercial loans, partially offset by a reduction of $5,103 in commercial real estate loans, partially offset by reductions of $20,662 in commercial loans and $24,770 in construction real estate loans. The commercial and commercial real estate loan portfolios were impacted by a $28,568 payoff when a customer was acquired by an out-of-state buyer in the first quarter of 2018. The Company continues to focus on business development efforts in all of its markets. Loan production activities began in Owatonna, Mankato and St. Cloud, Minnesota during March of 2019. Management believes organic loan growth will occur in all three of our markets during the remainder of 2018.2019.

Credit quality of the Company's loan portfolio remains strong and stable. The Company's Texas ratio, which is computed by dividing total nonperforming assets by tangible common equity plus the allowance for loan losses, was 1.070.86 percent as of June 30, 2018,March 31, 2019, compared to 0.320.93 percent as of December 31, 2017. The increase2018.

In accordance with regulatory guidelines, the Company exercises heightened risk management practices when non-owner occupied commercial real estate lending exceeds 300 percent of total risk-based capital or construction, land development, and other land loans exceed 100 percent of total risk-based capital. Although the Company's loan portfolio is heavily concentrated in real estate and its real estate portfolio levels exceed these regulatory guidelines, it has established risk management policies and procedures to regularly monitor the commercial real estate portfolio. An analysis of the Company's non-owner occupied commercial real estate portfolio as of December 31, 2018 was presented in the Texas ratio was dueCompany's Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 28, 2019 and the Company has not experienced any material changes to the increase in nonaccrual loans related to two customers. The ratio for both dates was significantly better than the Marchthat analysis since December 31, 2018 peer group average (latest data available), which was approximately 8.03 percent, according to data in the March 2018 Bank Holding Company Performance Report prepared by the Division of Supervision and Regulation of the Federal Reserve.


42


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)
2018.

The following table sets forth the amount of nonperforming assets held by the Company and common ratio measurements of those assets as of the dates shown. 
June 30, 2018 December 31, 2017 ChangeMarch 31, 2019 December 31, 2018 Change
Nonaccrual loans$2,127
 $622
 $1,505
$1,827
 $1,928
 $(101)
Loans past due 90 days and still accruing interest
 
 

 
 
Troubled debt restructured loans (1)

 
 

 
 
Total nonperforming loans2,127
 622
 1,505
1,827
 1,928
 (101)
Other real estate owned
 
 

 
 
Total nonperforming assets$2,127
 $622
 $1,505
$1,827
 $1,928
 $(101)
 
  
  
 
  
  
Nonperforming loans to total loans0.14% 0.04% 0.10%0.10% 0.11% (0.01)%
Nonperforming assets to total assets0.10% 0.03% 0.07%0.08% 0.08%  %

(1)While TDR loans are commonly reported by the industry as nonperforming, those not classified in the nonaccrual category are accruing interest due to payment performance. TDR loans on nonaccrual status are categorized as nonaccrual. There were two TDR loans as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 and one TDR loan as of December 31, 20172018 with balances of $724$616 and $220,$652, respectively, categorized as nonaccrual.

For additional information, refer to “Provision for Loan Losses and the Related Allowance for Loan Losses” in this section, and Note 4 to the financial statements.

DepositsPremises and Equipment

Deposits increased $81,116 duringIn the first six monthsquarter of 2018, or 4.5 percent, compared to December 31, 2017.  Interest-bearing demand accounts declined $68,485, while savings accounts, which include money market accounts, increased $154,710 from December 31, 2017 to June 30, 2018. Balance fluctuations were primarily due to normal customer activity,2019, the Company adopted ASU 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). This guidance requires the recognition of certain leases on the balance sheet as corporate customers' liquidity needs vary at any given time. Total time deposits increased $9,498 during the first six months of 2018.right-of-use assets and lease liabilities. As of June 30, 2018, a significant related party relationship maintained total deposit balances with West BankMarch 31, 2019, the Company leases real estate for its main office, six branch offices, one loan production office and office space for operations departments under various operating lease agreements. The right-of-use assets, included in premises and equipment, and lease liabilities, included in other liabilities, were $9,549,000 and $9,785,000 as of approximately $160,586.

March 31, 2019, respectively. Subsequent to March 31, 2019, two additional leases will commence for loan production offices in Minnesota.


4339


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

Deposits

Deposits increased $13,794 during the first three months of 2019.  Noninterest-bearing and interest-bearing demand accounts declined $11,844 and $26,114, respectively, while savings accounts, which include money market accounts, increased $57,133 from December 31, 2018 to March 31, 2019. Balance fluctuations were primarily due to normal customer activity, as corporate customers' liquidity needs vary at any given time. Total time deposits decreased $5,381 during the first three months of 2019.

Borrowed Funds

In the first three months of 2019, $60,000 of short-term FHLB advances matured. In a strategy to manage its exposures to the variability in interest payments due to interest rate movements, the Company entered into two interest rate swaps in January 2019 with a total notional amount of $50,000 to hedge the interest payments of rolling fixed-rate three-month funding consisting of FHLB advances or brokered deposits. As part of this strategy, the Company entered into two fixed-rate three-month FHLB advances totaling $50,000 in the first quarter of 2019.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

The objectives of liquidity management are to ensure the availability of sufficient cash flows to meet all financial commitments and to capitalize on opportunities for profitable business expansion.  The Company's principal source of funds is deposits.  Other sources include loan principal repayments, proceeds from the maturity and sale of investment securities, principal payments on collateralized mortgage obligations, mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, federal funds purchased, advances from the FHLB, and funds provided by operations.  Liquidity management is conducted on both a daily and a long-term basis.  Investments in liquid assets are adjusted based on expected loan demand, projected loan and investment securities maturities and payments, expected deposit flows and the objectives set by the Company's asset-liability management policy. The Company had liquid assets (cash and cash equivalents) of $65,103$47,539 as of June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 compared with $47,949$47,474 as of December 31, 2017.2018.

As of June 30, 2018,March 31, 2019, West Bank had additional borrowing capacity available from the FHLB of approximately $342,000,$314,000, as well as approximately $67,000 through unsecured federal funds lines of credit with correspondent banks.  Net cash from operating activities contributed $16,987$6,645 to liquidity for the sixthree months ended June 30, 2018.March 31, 2019.  Management believed that the combination of high levels of potentially liquid assets, cash flows from operations, and additional borrowing capacity provided the Company with strong liquidity as of June 30, 2018.March 31, 2019.

The Company's total stockholders' equity increased to $182,352$196,270 at June 30, 2018March 31, 2019 from $178,098$191,023 at December 31, 2017.2018.  The increase was primarily the result of net income less dividends paid, and was partially offset by a declinean increase in accumulated other comprehensive income. At June 30, 2018,March 31, 2019, the Company's tangible common equity as a percent of tangible assets was 8.308.49 percent compared to 8.428.32 percent as of December 31, 2017.2018.

The Company and West Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by federal and state banking agencies.  Failure to meet minimum capital requirements (as shown in the following table) can result in certain mandatory and possibly additional discretionary actions by regulators, which, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Company and West Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of their assets, liabilities and certain off-balance sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Company's and West Bank's capital amounts and classifications are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings and other factors. Management believed the Company and West Bank met all capital adequacy requirements to which they were subject as of June 30, 2018.March 31, 2019.

4440


Table of Contents
West Bancorporation, Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis
(in thousands, except share and per share data)

The Company's and West Bank's capital amounts and ratios are presented in the following table.
Actual For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
 
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes With Capital Conservation Buffer
 
To Be Well-Capitalized
Under Prompt Corrective
Action Provisions
Actual For Capital
Adequacy Purposes
 
For Capital
Adequacy Purposes With Capital Conservation Buffer
 
To Be Well-Capitalized
Under Prompt Corrective
Action Provisions
Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount RatioAmount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio
As of June 30, 2018:               
As of March 31, 2019:               
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)            Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)            
Consolidated$225,038
 12.08% $149,072
 8.00% $184,010
 9.875% N/A
 N/A
$237,984
 11.49% $165,696
 8.00% $217,476
 10.50% N/A
 N/A
West Bank240,701
 12.93% 148,896
 8.00% 183,794
 9.875% $186,120
 10.00%247,315
 11.95% 165,582
 8.00% 217,327
 10.50% $206,978
 10.00%
 
  
      
  
  
  
 
  
      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)      
  
  
  
Consolidated208,520
 11.19% 111,804
 6.00% 146,742
 7.875% N/A
 N/A
221,247
 10.68% 124,272
 6.00% 176,052
 8.50% N/A
 N/A
West Bank224,183
 12.05% 111,672
 6.00% 146,570
 7.875% 148,896
 8.00%230,578
 11.14% 124,187
 6.00% 175,931
 8.50% 165,582
 8.00%
                              
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)          Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)          
Consolidated188,520
 10.12% 83,853
 4.50% 118,791
 6.375% N/A
 N/A
201,247
 9.72% 93,204
 4.50% 144,984
 7.00% N/A
 N/A
West Bank224,183
 12.05% 83,754
 4.50% 118,652
 6.375% 120,978
 6.50%230,578
 11.14% 93,140
 4.50% 144,885
 7.00% 134,536
 6.50%
 
  
      
  
  
  
 
  
      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)      
  
  
  
Consolidated208,520
 9.69% 86,091
 4.00% 86,091
 4.00% N/A
 N/A
221,247
 9.61% 92,110
 4.00% 92,110
 4.00% N/A
 N/A
West Bank224,183
 10.42% 86,018
 4.00% 86,018
 4.00% 107,522
 5.00%230,578
 10.02% 92,047
 4.00% 92,047
 4.00% 115,059
 5.00%
 
  
      
  
  
  
 
  
      
  
  
  
As of December 31, 2017: 
  
      
  
  
  
As of December 31, 2018: 
  
      
  
  
  
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)      
  
  
  
Total Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)      
  
  
  
Consolidated$216,420
 11.76% $147,169
 8.00% $170,164
 9.25% N/A
 N/A
$234,526
 11.50% $163,213
 8.00% $201,466
 9.875% N/A
 N/A
West Bank235,570
 12.82% 147,049
 8.00% 170,026
 9.25% $183,812
 10.00%245,962
 12.07% 163,076
 8.00% 201,297
 9.875% $203,845
 10.00%
 
  
      
  
  
  
 
  
      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)      
  
  
  
Consolidated199,990
 10.87% 110,377
 6.00% 133,372
 7.25% N/A
 N/A
217,837
 10.68% 122,410
 6.00% 160,663
 7.875% N/A
 N/A
West Bank219,140
 11.92% 110,287
 6.00% 133,263
 7.25% 147,049
 8.00%229,273
 11.25% 122,307
 6.00% 160,528
 7.875% 163,076
 8.00%
                              
Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)          Common Equity Tier 1 Capital (to Risk-Weighted Assets)          
Consolidated179,990
 9.78% 82,783
 4.50% 105,778
 5.75% N/A
 N/A
197,837
 9.70% 91,807
 4.50% 130,060
 6.375% N/A
 N/A
West Bank219,140
 11.92% 82,715
 4.50% 105,692
 5.75% 119,478
 6.50%229,273
 11.25% 91,730
 4.50% 129,951
 6.375% 132,499
 6.50%
                              
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)      
  
  
  
Tier 1 Capital (to Average Assets)      
  
  
  
Consolidated199,990
 9.60% 83,326
 4.00% 83,326
 4.00% N/A
 N/A
217,837
 9.74% 89,485
 4.00% 89,485
 4.00% N/A
 N/A
West Bank219,140
 10.52% 83,287
 4.00% 83,287
 4.00% 104,109
 5.00%229,273
 10.26% 89,410
 4.00% 89,410
 4.00% 111,762
 5.00%

On January 1, 2015, the Company and West Bank became subject to the rules of the Basel III regulatory capital framework and related Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act changes. The new rules included the implementation of a capital conservation buffer that is added to the minimum requirements for capital adequacy purposes. The capital conservation buffer iswas subject to a three year phase-in period that began on January 1, 2016 and will bewas fully phased-in on January 1, 2019 at 2.5 percent. The required phase-in capital conservation buffer during 2018 iswas 1.875 percent and was 1.25 percent in 2017.percent. A banking organization with a conservation buffer of less than the required amount will be subject to limitations on capital distributions, including dividend payments and certain discretionary bonus payments to executive officers. At June 30, 2018,March 31, 2019, the ratios for the Company and West Bank were sufficient to meet the fully phased-in conservation buffer.


4541


Table of Contents


Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Market risk is the risk of earnings volatility that results from adverse changes in interest rates and market prices. The Company's market risk is primarily interest rate risk arising from its core banking activities of lending and deposit taking. Interest rate risk is the risk that the change in market interest rates may adversely affect the Company's net interest income. Management continually develops and implements strategies to mitigate this risk. The analysis of the Company's interest rate risk as of December 31, 2017 was presented in the Company's Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 1, 2018. The Company has not experienced any material changes to its interest rate risk position since December 31, 2017. Management does not believe that the Company's primary market risk exposure and management of that exposure in the first six months of 2018 materially changed compared to those in the year ended December 31, 2017.Not required for smaller reporting companies.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

a. Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. As of the end of the period covered by this report, an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)) was performed under the supervision, and with the participation, of the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act was recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms.

b. Changes in internal controls over financial reporting. There were no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

Part II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

Neither the Company nor West Bank is a party, and no property of these entities is subject, to any material pending legal proceedings, other than ordinary routine litigation incidental to West Bank's business. The Company does not know of any proceeding contemplated by a governmental authority against the Company or West Bank.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

Management does not believe there have been any material changes in the risk factors that were disclosed in the Company's Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange CommissionSEC on March 1, 2018.February 28, 2019.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

None.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

Item 5. Other Information

None.


4642


Table of Contents



Item 6. Exhibits

The following exhibits are filed as part of this report:
ExhibitsDescription
3.1
Amended and Restated Bylaws of West Bancorporation, Inc. as of January 23, 2019 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 filed with the Form 8-K on January 24, 2019)
31.1
31.2
32.1
32.2
101.INSXBRL Instance Document
101.SCHXBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CALXBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEFXBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LABXBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PREXBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document


4743


Table of Contents


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

West Bancorporation, Inc.   
(Registrant)   
    
    
July 26, 2018April 25, 2019By:/s/ David D. Nelson 
Date David D. Nelson 
  Chief Executive Officer and President 
  (Principal Executive Officer) 
    
July 26, 2018April 25, 2019By:/s/ Douglas R. Gulling 
Date Douglas R. Gulling 
  Executive Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer 
  (Principal Financial Officer) 
    
July 26, 2018April 25, 2019By:/s/ Marie I. RobertsJane M. Funk 
Date Marie I. RobertsJane M. Funk 
  Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer 
  (Principal Accounting Officer) 


4844