UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

þ Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the year ended DECEMBER 31, 2013

¨Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15 (d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the transition period from     to     

Commission File Number 001-34696

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Washington	91-1572822
(State of incorporation)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

111 North Wall Street, Spokane, Washington 99201

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (509) 358-8097

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Common Stock	Nasdaq
(Title of each class)	(Name of each exchange on which registered)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

(Title of class) None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes þ  No ¨

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ¨  No þ

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Sections 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 þ  No ¨

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 þ  No ¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  þ

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

Large accelerated filer þ Accelerated filer ¨ Non-accelerated filer ¨ Smaller reporting company ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes ¨  No þ

As of June 30, 2013, the aggregate market value of the common equity held by non-affiliates of the registrant, computed by reference to the average of the bid and asked prices on such date as reported by the NASDAQ Capital Market, was $840,325,916.

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's common stock as of January 31, 2014 was 62,386,209.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Specific portions of the registrant's Proxy Statement for its 2014 annual meeting of shareholders are incorporated by reference into Part III hereof. In the event that Sterling does not file a Proxy Statement as a result of consummating the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, Sterling will amend this Annual Report on Form 10-K to include the information required by this Item.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

December 31, 2013

PART I
Item 1	Business	1
Item 1A	Risk Factors	18
Item 1B	Unresolved Staff Comments	23
Item 2	Properties	23
Item 3	Legal Proceedings	23
Item 4	Mine Safety Disclosures	24
PART II		25
Item 5	Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities	25
Item 6	Selected Financial Data	27
Item 7	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	29
Item 7A	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	52
Item 8	Financial Statements and Supplementary Data	52
Item 9	Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure	52
Item 9A	Controls and Procedures	52
Item 9B	Other Information	54
PART III		56
Item 10	Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance	56
Item 11	Executive Compensation	56
Item 12	Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters	56
Item 13	Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence	56
Item 14	Principal Accounting Fees and Services	56
PART IV		57
Item 15	Exhibits, Financial Statements Schedules	57
SIGNATURES		58

PART I

This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. For a discussion of the risks and uncertainties inherent in such statements, see "Business—Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors."

Item 1.Business

General

Sterling Financial Corporation, with headquarters in Spokane, Washington, was organized under the laws of Washington State in 1992 as the bank holding company for Sterling Savings Bank, which commenced operations in 1983. References to "Sterling," "the Company," "we," "our," or "us" in this report are to Sterling Financial Corporation, a Washington corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries on a combined basis, unless otherwise specified or the context otherwise requires. References to "Sterling Bank" refer to our subsidiary Sterling Savings Bank, a Washington state-chartered commercial bank. Sterling Savings Bank does business as Sterling Bank in Washington, Oregon and Idaho, and as Argent Bank in California, offering retail and commercial banking products and services, mortgage lending and trust and investment products to individuals, small businesses, commercial organizations and corporations. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling had assets of $10.32 billion and operated 173 depository branches in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and California.

Recent Developments

Net income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $93.6 million, $385.7 million, and $39.1 million, respectively. The changes in operating results over the years presented included an increase in net interest income and net interest margin, and lower credit costs. A significant item affecting comparability over the years presented was an income tax benefit of $292.0 million recorded during 2012 in connection with the release of a deferred tax asset valuation allowance, while 2013 included an income tax provision of $37.9 million. Sterling did not recognize any federal or state income tax provision or benefit during 2011. Mortgage banking income declined for 2013, as compared with 2012, from lower refinancing activity.

The net interest margin expanded to 3.64% for the year ended December 31, 2013, from 3.46% and 3.29% for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, principally driven by a decline in funding costs. The decline in funding costs reflected a shift in the mix and repricing of deposits, as well as a lower balance of wholesale borrowings from securities sold under repurchase agreements in conjunction with the balance sheet repositioning activity undertaken during the fourth quarter of 2012. Net interest income expanded by $19.6 million during 2013, and $9.5 million during 2012, reflecting the decline in funding costs and an increase in interest income on loans, partially offset by a decline in interest income on mortgage-backed securities ("MBS").

During 2013, there was no provision for credit losses, compared with a $10.0 million and $30.0 million provision during 2012 and 2011, respectively, reflecting the decline in nonperforming assets. At December 31, 2013, the ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets was 1.21% compared to 2.28% at December 31, 2012, and 4.01% at December 31, 2011.

On February 28, 2013, Sterling completed the acquisition of American Heritage Holdings, the holding company for Borrego Springs Bank, N.A. ("Borrego"), for $8.7 million in consideration, adding an aggregate of $103.7 million of gross loans and $118.2 million of deposits. A bargain purchase gain of $7.5 million was recorded in connection with the acquisition, reflecting the fair value of net assets acquired in excess of the purchase price. On May 10, 2013, Sterling paid $123.0 million to acquire the Puget Sound operations of Boston Private Bank & Trust Company ("Boston Private"), which added $278.5 million of performing loans and $168.2 million of deposits. On October 1, 2013, Sterling paid $42.9 million in cash to acquire Newport Beach, Calif.-based Commerce National Bank ("CNB"). At closing, CNB had assets of $260.8 million, loans of $164.8 million, and deposits of $189.6 million.

On September 11, 2013, Sterling entered into a definitive agreement to merge (the "Merger") with and into Umpqua Holdings Corporation ("Umpqua"), with headquarters in Portland, Oregon. Immediately after the Merger, Sterling Bank will merge (the "Bank Merger") with and into Umpqua Bank, an Oregon state chartered bank and wholly owned subsidiary of Umpqua. Upon completion of the mergers, the combined company will operate under the Umpqua Bank name and brand. The transaction is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2014, subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions. Under the terms of the Merger, Sterling shareholders will receive 1.671 shares of Umpqua common stock and $2.18 in cash,

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without interest, for each share of Sterling common stock. On February 25, 2014, the shareholders of both Sterling and Umpqua approved the Merger.

Business Strategy

Sterling's goal has been to be one of America's great community banks by offering customers a range of highly personalized financial products and services. This strategy has centered on bringing the full product suite of a large regional institution to consumer and commercial customers with the personalized service of a local community bank. The four tenets of this philosophy are:

• Knowledgeable bankers—We actively promote employee development, training and compensation initiatives designed to enable our talented team of bankers to capably serve our customers across our footprint.

• Fair pricing—We offer a meaningful value proposition for our customers, while providing competitive funding and returns.

• Convenience and ease of use—We have retail banking and mortgage loan origination offices with customer-oriented hours of operations; automatic teller machines located throughout our footprint; and full-service consumer and business internet banking and on-line bill pay services, including mobile banking applications.

• Competitive products and services—We offer a full range of consumer, small business, commercial, corporate, wealth management and mortgage banking products and services across our four-state footprint. Our treasury management products include an advanced and easy to use Remote Deposit Capture system that is comparable to those of the largest banks operating in our area.

Our banking model is built around core customer relationships, and reflects our belief that every customer deserves a banking relationship built on trust and a superior experience with every interaction. In addition to organic growth based upon the tenets outlined above, an integral part of Sterling's strategy has included acquiring other financial institutions or branches thereof, or other substantial assets or deposit liabilities. During 2013, Sterling has strategically grown its presence in the Southern California market through its acquisitions of Borrego and CNB, and the opening of three new commercial banking offices in Glendale, Oxnard, and Encino, CA.

Profitability and Shareholder Wealth

The following strategies and objectives are integral to our profitability and ability to build wealth for our shareholders:

• Improving our deposit base, both in the mix and cost of deposits;

• Focusing on asset quality, by actively managing our nonperforming assets;

• Growing loan balances, built on customer relationships;

• Reducing operating expenses, by improving efficiencies; and

• Actively managing capital levels.

We continue to shift our deposit mix towards lower cost transaction, savings and money market deposit accounts ("MMDA"). An asset quality focus is reflected by our robust underwriting and credit approval functions, and our asset quality metrics. We are focused on expanding full relationship banking products and services, and generating high quality assets, while implementing initiatives directed towards controlling our expenses and achieving efficiencies essential to our profitability. Sterling believes these strategies, combined with our active risk and capital management, will contribute to high quality, consistent earnings, and the building of shareholder value. The effect of these strategies on Sterling's financial results is discussed further in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ("MD&A").

Segment Information

Sterling's operations are divided into two primary business segments that represent our core businesses:

• Community Banking - providing traditional banking services through the retail banking, private banking and commercial banking groups, including the originating and servicing of commercial real estate, owner occupied CRE and C&I loans.

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• Home Loan Division - originating and selling residential real estate loans through its mortgage banking operations, on both a servicing-retained and servicing-released basis.

The results of operations are reported by segment in Note 24 of "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements."

Lending Activities

A description of Sterling's lending products and activities are as follows:

Commercial Real Estate Lending. Sterling offers commercial real estate loans for investor non-owner occupied, multifamily, and construction projects, collateralized by real property. Permanent fixed- and adjustable-rate loans on existing properties typically have maturities of three to 30 years. In general, commercial real estate loans involve a higher degree of risk than one- to four-family residential real estate loans, because they typically involve large loan balances to single borrowers or groups of related borrowers. The performance of commercial real estate loans is subject to certain risks not present in one- to four-family residential mortgage lending, including: excessive vacancy rates, inadequate operating cash flows, construction delays, cost overruns, insufficient values and environmental risks.

Commercial Lending. Sterling provides a full range of credit and financial services products to small- and medium-sized businesses. These products include commercial and industrial ("C&I") lending such as: lines of credit, receivable and inventory financing, and equipment loans. These products also include term financing for owner occupied commercial real estate properties. These loans are at fixed or adjustable rate structures, typically with terms of 12 months to 15 years. Loans may be fully secured, partially secured or unsecured, based on certain credit criteria. The product line for businesses includes standardized products, including access to the Small Business Administration ("SBA") and U.S. Department of Agriculture ("USDA") guaranteed lending programs, as well as customized solutions, including cash flow and treasury management services.

Consumer Lending. Consumer loans and lines of credit are originated directly through Sterling's retail branches and private banking teams, and indirectly through Sterling's dealer banking department. Sterling finances the purchase of consumer goods, including automobiles, boats and recreational vehicles, and lines of credit for personal use. Generally, consumer loans have fixed or adjustable rate structures, and are at terms ranging from six months to 10 years. Sterling also makes loans secured by borrowers' savings accounts and equity loans collateralized by residential real estate. Home equity loans may have maturities of up to 20 years.

One- to Four-Family Residential Lending. Sterling originates residential mortgages that are generally underwritten to conform with guidelines of the Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac"), guidelines established by government insured loan programs, or guidelines established by investors (correspondent banks). Loans are originated through Sterling's network of retail mortgage offices and depository branches. Products include: a) fixed-rate residential mortgages; and b) adjustable-rate residential mortgages ("ARMs"), which have interest rates that adjust annually with a fixed period of three, five, seven or 10 years and are indexed to a variety of market indices. Sterling focuses its residential lending efforts on originating traditional amortizing loans for owner occupied homes, second homes and investment properties. Generally, conventional and government guaranteed residential mortgage loans are originated for up to 80% of the appraised value or selling price of the mortgaged property, whichever is less. Borrowers must purchase mortgage insurance from approved third parties so that Sterling's risk is limited to approximately 80% of the appraised value at origination on most loans with loan-to-value ratios in excess of 80%. Sterling's residential lending programs are designed to comply with all applicable regulatory requirements.

Loan Servicing and Secondary Market Activities. Sterling sells mortgage loans on a servicing-retained basis to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, or on a servicing-released basis to correspondent banks. Loan servicing includes collecting and remitting loan payments, accounting for principal and interest, holding and disbursing escrow funds for the payment of real estate taxes and insurance premiums, contacting delinquent borrowers and supervising foreclosures in the event of unremedied defaults. For sales of loans on a servicing-retained basis, Sterling records a servicing asset, while for sales of loans on a servicing-released basis, Sterling receives a fee. In 2013, Sterling began using a subservicer to service its residential mortgage portfolio.

Loans sold into the secondary market are sold with limited recourse against Sterling, meaning that Sterling may be obligated to repurchase or otherwise reimburse the investor for incurred losses on any loans that suffer an early payment default, are not underwritten in accordance with investor guidelines or are determined to have pre-closing borrower misrepresentations. Sterling maintains a reserve for unfunded credit commitments to cover the costs associated with these potential indemnification

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obligations. As a Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae") issuer, loans sold via securitization by Sterling to correspondent banks contain government guarantees as to the timely payment of principal and interest for federally insured or guaranteed Federal Housing Administration ("FHA"), the Department of Veterans Affairs ("VA") or USDA loans.

Sterling also purchases and sells nonresidential loans in the secondary market. Agents who present loans to Sterling for purchase are required to provide a processed loan package prior to commitment. Sterling then underwrites the loans in accordance with its established lending standards. Nonresidential loan sales provide Sterling with fee income, and assist with managing portfolio concentration risks.

Credit Quality Management

Details of Sterling's problem asset classifications and allowance for credit losses policies and procedures are as follows:

Classified and Nonperforming Assets. To measure the quality of loans and other real estate owned ("OREO"), Sterling has established guidelines for classifying and determining provisions for anticipated losses. Sterling's system employs the risk rating categories of "substandard," "doubtful" and "loss" for its classified assets. Substandard assets have deficiencies, which give rise to the distinct possibility that Sterling will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. Doubtful assets have the same weaknesses as substandard assets, and on the basis of currently existing facts, are also deemed to have a high probability of loss. The portion of the asset considered uncollectible and of such little value that it should not be included as an asset of Sterling is classified as a loss. In such cases, Sterling establishes a specific valuation reserve.

The credit administration group focuses on identifying and resolving potential problem credits before they become classified. When an asset becomes classified, management of the relationship is assumed by Sterling's special assets department. Sterling actively engages the borrower and guarantor to remedy the situation by requesting updated financial information from the borrower(s) and guarantor(s) to determine a course of action. In addition, updated collateral values are obtained in order for Sterling's management to perform evaluations for regulatory and decision making purposes and updated title information is obtained to determine the status of encumbrances on the collateral. When possible, Sterling will require the borrower to provide additional collateral. In conjunction with the receipt of additional collateral, Sterling will sometimes modify the terms of the loan. Often the modified terms of the loan are consistent with terms that Sterling would offer a new borrower. If the borrower is having financial difficulties and the modification of terms is considered concessionary, Sterling designates the loan as a "troubled debt restructure" and reports it as a nonperforming loan. A loan designated as a troubled debt restructuring may be returned to accrual status after the borrower performs in accordance with the modified loan terms, generally for a period of at least six months. A loan may have its troubled debt restructure status removed after at least one year of satisfactory performance under the modified terms of the loan, unless the modification includes an interest rate concession that is below a market rate of interest for a loan with similar characteristics.

Sterling also may permit a borrower to sell the underlying collateral for less than the outstanding balance on the loan if the current collateral evaluation supports the offer price. These transactions are known as "short sales." In such situations, Sterling typically requires the borrower to sign a new note or bring cash to closing for the resulting deficiency.

If Sterling and a borrower are unable to achieve an acceptable resolution, Sterling may take a deed in lieu of foreclosure or initiate foreclosure on the underlying collateral. Under such circumstances, Sterling also simultaneously evaluates legal action for potential recovery against the borrowers and guarantors. After obtaining the collateral, Sterling actively works to sell the collateral.

Allowance for Credit Losses. Sterling regularly reviews its classified assets for impairment. If a loan is determined to be impaired, Sterling performs a valuation analysis on the loan. Valuation analysis compares the estimated fair value (discounted cash flow analysis or collateral market value less selling costs), and the book balance (loan principal and accrued interest). For loans that are considered collateral-dependent, the difference between the fair value and the book value is charged off as a confirmed loss. During times of declining real estate values, a specific reserve may be recorded on collateral-dependent impaired loans to recognize market declines since the last appraisal. For certain non-collateral-dependent loans, Sterling generally establishes a specific reserve for the difference between fair value and book value of these loans. Specific reserves are established and periodically adjusted, if necessary, based on the review of information obtained through on-site inspections, market analysis, appraisals and purchase offers.

Sterling maintains an allowance for credit losses at a level deemed appropriate by management to provide for losses related to specifically identified loans and estimated losses in the remaining portfolio, as well as unfunded commitments. The allowance

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is based upon historical loss experience, loan migration analysis, delinquency trends, portfolio size, concentrations of risk, prevailing and anticipated economic conditions, industry experience, estimated collateral values, management's assessment of credit risk inherent in the portfolio, specific problem loans and other relevant factors. The portfolio is grouped into several segments for loans collectively evaluated for impairment based on characteristics such as loan type, borrower and collateral. Loan migration to loss data is used to determine the annual "probability of default." The annual probability of default is adjusted for the estimated loss emergence period and may be further adjusted based on an assessment of qualitative factors. The estimated loss rates are established considering historical life-to-date losses, net of recoveries, on loans remaining in the portfolio, the trailing twelve months of losses on OREO (including losses on foreclosure, write-downs, and losses on sale), and losses on discounted note sales, resulting in a quantified "loss given default." The adjusted probability of default is multiplied by the loss given default to calculate the estimated loss rates for each loan class. The resulting estimated loss rates are validated against multiple metrics, including historical one-year and three-year annualized losses, net of recoveries, the historical trend in prior period estimated loss rates and management's assessment of the inherent losses based upon specific knowledge of the loan portfolio. Sterling may also maintain an unallocated allowance to provide for other credit losses that may exist in the loan portfolio that are not taken into consideration in establishing the probability of default and loss given default.

Additions to the allowance, in the form of provisions, are reflected in current operating results, while charge-offs to the allowance are made when a loss is determined to be a confirmed loss. Because the allowance for credit losses is based on management's estimate, ultimate losses may materially differ from the estimates.

Investments and MBS

Sterling invests primarily in Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae and Ginnie Mae MBS. Sterling also has investments in municipal bonds and nonagency collateralized mortgage obligations. Such investments provide Sterling with a relatively liquid source of interest income and collateral, which can be used to secure borrowings and assist with managing the interest rate risk and credit risk of Sterling's balance sheet.

Sources of Funds

Sterling's primary sources of funds are: retail, public and brokered deposits; the collection of principal and interest from loans and MBS; the sale of loans into the secondary market in connection with Sterling's mortgage banking activities and other loan sale activities; borrowings from the Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") and the Federal Reserve; and borrowings from commercial banks (including repurchase agreements). The availability and volume of these funds are influenced significantly by prevailing interest rates and other economic conditions, as well as regulatory statutes. Borrowings may be used on a short-term basis to compensate for reductions in other sources of funds (such as deposit inflows at less than projected levels). Borrowings may also be used on a longer-term basis to support expanded lending activities and to match repricing intervals of assets.

Deposit Activities. Sterling offers a wide variety of deposit products and related services to businesses, individuals, and public sector entities throughout its primary market areas. Deposit accounts include noninterest bearing and interest bearing transaction (checking) accounts, savings accounts, MMDA, and certificates of deposit ("CDs"). Interest rates are established by management and are based on a competitive market analysis. The method of compounding varies from simple interest credited at maturity to daily compounding, depending on the type of account. With the exception of certain promotional CDs and variable-rate products, most CDs carry a fixed rate of interest for a defined term from the opening date of the account. Penalties are imposed if principal is withdrawn from most CDs prior to maturity.

Sterling competes with other financial institutions and financial intermediaries in attracting deposits. There is strong competition for transaction, money market and time deposit balances from commercial banks, credit unions and nonbank corporations, such as securities brokerage companies, mutual funds and other diversified companies, some of which have nationwide networks of offices. Many of Sterling's marketing efforts have been directed toward attracting additional deposit customer relationships and balances. Sterling provides electronic banking products, including debit card, online banking, mobile banking applications, bill pay, merchant services and treasury management services, which include remote deposit capture. All of these products and services are intended to enhance customer relationships and attract and increase retail deposit balances.

Sterling supplements its retail deposit gathering by soliciting funds from public entities and through the acquisition of brokered deposits. Public funds are generally obtained by competitive bidding among qualifying financial institutions, and usually

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require Sterling to provide the public entities with collateral in the form of qualifying securities for any portion of the deposit that exceeds FDIC deposit insurance limits.

Borrowings. Although deposits are Sterling's primary source of funds, Sterling also uses other borrowings to supplement its deposit gathering efforts. These borrowings include advances from the FHLB, repurchase agreements, primary credits and term auction facilities from the Federal Reserve, and federal funds purchased. See "MD&A—Liquidity and Capital Resources."

The FHLB of Seattle is part of a system that consists of 12 regional Federal Home Loan Banks that provide secured credit to financial institutions. As a condition of membership in the FHLB of Seattle, Sterling Bank is required to own stock of the FHLB of Seattle, with the amount determined as the greater of either a percentage of Sterling's total mortgage related assets, or a percentage of Sterling's total advances outstanding from the FHLB of Seattle. At December 31, 2013, Sterling Bank held more than the minimum FHLB of Seattle stock ownership requirement.

Sterling also borrows funds under repurchase agreements with major broker/dealers and financial entities pursuant to which it sells investments (generally, U.S. agency obligations and MBS) under an agreement to buy them back at a specified price at a later date. These agreements to repurchase are deemed to be borrowings collateralized by the investments and MBS sold. The use of repurchase agreements and other secured borrowings may expose Sterling to certain risks, including the possibility that additional collateral may have to be provided if the market value of the pledged collateral declines.

Subsidiaries

Sterling's principal operating subsidiary is Sterling Bank. See exhibit 21.1 for a complete list of subsidiaries for Sterling and Sterling Bank.

Competition

Sterling faces strong competition, both in attracting deposits and in originating, purchasing and selling loans, from commercial banks, savings and loan associations, mortgage companies, mutual savings banks, credit unions and other institutions, many of which have greater resources than Sterling. Sterling also faces strong competition in marketing financial products such as annuities, mutual funds and other financial products and in pursuing acquisition opportunities. Some or all of these competitive businesses operate in Sterling's market areas.

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As of June 30, 2013, Sterling Bank's deposit market share was as follows, as compiled from SNL:

Washington					Oregon
County	Branches	Rank	Market Share		County	Branches	Rank	Market Share
Adams	2	3	21.6	%	Baker	1	2	28.6	%
Asotin	2	2	19.4	%	Benton	1	8	2.8	%
Benton	4	8	4.9	%	Clackamas	2	16	0.7	%
Clallam	2	11	3.5	%	Columbia	1	3	16.1	%
Clark	10	4	13.1	%	Coos	5	2	27.6	%
Columbia	1	3	26.4	%	Curry	3	1	29.3	%
Douglas	1	5	6.0	%	Deschutes	4	10	2.6	%
Franklin	1	9	5.2	%	Douglas	1	7	1.4	%
Garfield	1	1	53.5	%	Grant	1	3	23.5	%
Grant	2	5	8.6	%	Harney	1	3	21.8	%
Grays Harbor	3	4	9.5	%	Jackson	4	10	4.6	%
King	16	11	1.3	%	Josephine	2	11	3.2	%
Kitsap	1	14	0.9	%	Klamath	5	2	26.9	%
Kittitas	2	3	12.1	%	Lake	1	3	27.8	%
Klickitat	2	1	34.8	%	Lane	3	13	1.1	%
Lewis	4	2	16.4	%	Malheur	3	2	22.3	%
Okanogan	2	2	22.5	%	Marion	1	13	1.1	%
Pierce	2	17	0.6	%	Multnomah	4	12	0.7	%
Skamania	1	1	60.1	%	Polk	1	7	5.8	%
Snohomish	2	24	0.4	%	Tillamook	2	2	31.3	%
Spokane	9	3	11.6	%	Umatilla	2	6	5.7	%
Thurston	4	13	3.1	%	Union	3	1	24.3	%
Walla Walla	3	6	4.4	%	Wallowa	1	2	25.6	%
Whatcom	3	12	2.6	%	Washington	3	11	2.5	%
Whitman	3	7	4.1	%	Yamhill	1	8	2.5	%
Idaho					California
County	Branches	Rank	Market Share		County	Branches	Rank	Market Share
Ada	2	19	0.5	%	Contra Costa	2	20	0.3	%
Adams	1	2	34.6	%	Marin	2	13	0.7	%
Benewah	1	4	16.9	%	Orange	1	41	0.3	%
Idaho	3	1	48.4	%	San Diego	3	30	0.2	%
Kootenai	3	10	3.3	%	Sonoma	9	7	5.9	%
Latah	3	2	26.0	%
Nez Perce	2	2	17.9	%
Valley	2	3	27.6	%

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Personnel

As of December 31, 2013, Sterling had 2,547 full-time equivalent employees. Employees are not represented by a collective bargaining unit.

Regulation

The following is a summary of some of the more significant provisions of laws applicable to Sterling and its subsidiaries. This regulatory framework is designed to protect depositors, federal deposit insurance funds and the banking system as a whole, and not to protect security holders. To the extent that the information describes statutory and regulatory provisions, it is qualified in its entirety by reference to those provisions. Further, such statutes, regulations and policies are continually under review by Congress and state legislatures, and federal and state regulators. A change in statutes, regulations or regulatory policies applicable to Sterling, including changes in interpretation or implementation thereof, could have a material effect on Sterling's business.

General. As a bank holding company, Sterling is subject to regulation, examination and supervision by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended (the "BHCA"), and by the Washington Department of Financial Institutions (the "WDFI"). Our subsidiary Sterling Bank is a Washington state-chartered commercial bank, and its deposits are insured by the FDIC. It is subject to regulation, examination and supervision by the FDIC and the WDFI. Numerous federal and state laws, as well as regulations promulgated by the Federal Reserve, the FDIC and state banking regulators, govern almost all aspects of the operation of Sterling Bank, and Sterling's non-bank subsidiaries are also subject to regulation by applicable federal and state regulators for the states in which they conduct business.

Bank Holding Company Regulation. The BHCA limits a bank holding company's business to owning or controlling banks and engaging in other banking-related activities. Bank holding companies must obtain the Federal Reserve's approval before they: (1) acquire direct or indirect ownership or control of any voting shares of any bank that results in total ownership or control, directly or indirectly, of more than 5% of the voting shares of such bank; (2) merge or consolidate with another bank holding company; or (3) acquire substantially all of the assets of any additional banks. Subject to certain state laws, such as age and contingency restrictions, a bank holding company that is adequately capitalized and adequately managed may acquire the assets of both in-state banks and out-of-state banks. With certain exceptions, the BHCA prohibits bank holding companies from acquiring direct or indirect ownership or control of voting shares in any company that is not a bank or a bank holding company unless the Federal Reserve determines that the activities of such company are incidental or closely related to the business of banking. If a bank holding company is well-capitalized and meets certain criteria specified by the Federal Reserve, it may engage de novo in certain permissible non-banking activities without prior Federal Reserve approval.

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (the "Dodd-Frank Act"), affects the regulation and operations of banks and bank holding companies in many ways. Pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, the FDIC has back-up supervisory authority over bank holding companies engaging in conduct that poses a foreseeable and material risk to the Deposit Insurance Fund ("DIF"), and the Federal Reserve has heightened authority to examine, prescribe regulations and take action with respect to all of a bank holding company's subsidiaries. The Office of Financial Research, has authority to collect data from all financial institutions for the purpose of studying threats to U.S. financial stability. Banks and bank holding companies with $10 billion or more in assets are required to conduct and publish the results of annual capital stress tests.

On July 31, 2013, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued an order granting summary judgment to the plaintiffs in a case challenging certain provisions of the Federal Reserve's rule concerning debit card transaction fees that were adopted to implement Section 1075 of the Dodd-Frank Act, known as the Durbin Amendment. If this decision is ultimately upheld, the amount of debit card interchange fees that a bank subject to the Durbin Amendment would be permitted to charge likely would be reduced further than the current 21 cent cap per transaction.

On December 10, 2013, the final rule implementing section 619 of the Dodd-Frank Act, commonly referred to as the "Volcker Rule," was released. The Volker Rule relates to the trading of securities and the type of securities that may be held by banks, and is primarily applicable to institutions with large broker-dealer and proprietary trading activities. One provision of the Volker Rule prohibits the holding of certain collateralized debt obligations ("CDOs"), including pooled trust preferred securities, except for certain trust preferred securities grandfathered in under subsequent revisions to the rule. Trust preferred debentures issued by banks with less than $15 billion in assets, that were pooled into CDOs before May 19, 2010, and were held prior to December 10, 2013, are excluded from the Volker Rule. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling did not hold any securities subject to the rule.

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Holding companies of banks chartered under Washington law are subject to applicable provisions of Washington's banking laws and to the examination, supervision and enforcement powers of the WDFI. Among other powers, the WDFI has the authority to issue and enforce cease and desist orders on such holding companies and to bring actions to remove their directors, officers and employees.

Change in Control. Subject to certain exceptions, the BHCA and the Change in Bank Control Act, together with regulations promulgated thereunder, require Federal Reserve approval prior to any person or company acquiring "control" of a bank or bank holding company. Control is conclusively presumed to exist if an individual or company acquires 25% or more of any class of voting securities. Control is rebuttably presumed to exist if a person acquires 10% or more, but less than 25%, of any class of an institution's voting securities and either that institution has registered securities under Section 12 of the Exchange Act or no other person owns a greater percentage of that class of voting securities immediately after the transaction. In certain cases, a company may also be presumed to have control under the BHCA if it acquires 5% or more of any class of voting securities.

On September 22, 2008, the Federal Reserve issued a policy statement on minority equity investments in banks and bank holding companies that permits investors—without triggering the various regulatory requirements associated with control—to (1) acquire up to 33% of the total equity of a target bank or bank holding company, subject to certain conditions including (but not limited to) the condition that the investing firm does not acquire 15% or more of any class of voting securities, and (2) designate at least one director to serve on the board of directors.

Pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Act, a bank holding company may acquire control of an out-of-state bank only if the bank holding company is well-capitalized and well-managed, and interstate merger transactions are prohibited unless the resulting bank would be well-capitalized and well-managed following the transaction. Washington state law requires that the WDFI be given notice at least 30 days in advance of any proposed change of control of a Washington state-chartered bank. Washington law defines "control" of an entity to mean directly or indirectly, alone or in concert with others, to own, control or hold the power to vote 25% or more of the outstanding stock or voting power of the entity.

Capital Requirements. The Federal Reserve has adopted guidelines pursuant to which it assesses the adequacy of capital in examining and supervising a bank holding company such as Sterling, and in analyzing applications under the BHCA. The FDIC has adopted similar guidelines to assess the adequacy of capital in state-chartered non-member banks such as Sterling Bank. These guidelines include quantitative measures that assign risk weightings to assets and off-balance sheet items and that define and set minimum regulatory capital requirements. The definitions of capital and the tests for measuring the adequacy of capital required by the Federal Reserve for bank holding companies and by the FDIC for state-chartered non-member banks are similar, but not identical.

In general, all bank holding companies are required to maintain a tier 1 leverage ratio of at least 3%, tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of at least 4%, and total risk-based capital ratio (the sum of tier 1 capital and tier 2 capital) of at least 8%.

Under FDIC regulations, all insured depository institutions are assigned to one of the following capital categories:

• Well-Capitalized—A well-capitalized insured depository institution: (1) has a total risk-based capital ratio of 10% or greater; (2) has a tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 6% or greater; (3) has a leverage capital ratio of 5% or greater; and (4) is not subject to any order or written directive to meet and maintain a specific capital level for any capital measure.

• Adequately Capitalized—An adequately capitalized insured depository institution: (1) has a total risk-based capital ratio of 8% or greater; (2) has a tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of 4% or greater; and (3) has a leverage capital ratio of 4% or greater or a leverage capital ratio of 3% or greater if the institution is rated composite 1 under the CAMELS (Capital, Assets, Management, Earnings, Liquidity and Sensitivity to market risk) rating system.

• Undercapitalized—An undercapitalized insured depository institution: (1) has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 8%; (2) has a tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 4%; or (3) has a leverage capital ratio of less than 4%, or if the institution is rated a composite 1 under the CAMELS rating system, a leverage capital ratio of less than 3%.

• Significantly Undercapitalized—A significantly undercapitalized insured depository institution: (1) has a total risk-based capital ratio of less than 6%; (2) has a tier 1 risk-based capital ratio of less than 3%; or (3) a leverage capital ratio of less than 3%.

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• Critically Undercapitalized—A critically undercapitalized institution: has a ratio of tangible equity to total assets that is equal to or less than 2%.

The regulations permit the appropriate federal banking regulator to downgrade an institution to the next lower category if the regulator determines that the institution is in an unsafe or unsound condition or that the institution has received and not corrected a less-than-satisfactory rating for any of the categories of asset quality, management, earnings or liquidity in its most recent examination. Supervisory actions by the appropriate federal banking regulator depend upon an institution's classification within the five regulatory capital categories. For the purposes of these tests, tier 1 capital generally consists of common equity, retained earnings and a limited amount of qualifying preferred stock, less accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), goodwill and certain core deposit intangibles. Tier 2 capital consists of non-qualifying preferred stock, certain types of debt and a limited amount of other items.

In measuring the adequacy of risk-based capital, assets are weighted for risk at rates that range from zero percent to 100%. Certain assets, such as cash and U.S. government securities, have a zero percent risk weighting. Others, such as certain commercial and consumer loans, have a 100% risk weighting. Risk weightings and asset equivalent factors are also assigned for off-balance sheet items such as loan commitments. The various items are multiplied by the appropriate risk-weighting to determine risk-adjusted assets for the capital calculations. For the leverage ratio mentioned above, assets are not risk-weighted.

On July 2, 2013, the Federal Reserve issued capital regulations generally consistent with new capital standards commonly referred to as "Basel III," and will become effective January 1, 2015. The regulations include: a permanent grandfathering of the existing tier 1 capital status of trust preferred junior subordinated debentures for banks with less than $15 billion in total assets (subject to exceptions in the case of mergers) and an option to exclude unrealized gains and losses on available for sale securities from tier 1 capital for banks with less than $250 billion in total assets (subject to certain limitations for acquisition related asset growth). Under Basel III, mortgage risk weightings increased for nonperforming loans, mortgage servicing rights, and deferred tax assets. Pursuant to Basel III, the Federal Reserve established a tier 1 common capital ratio minimum of 5% for bank holding companies, or 6% for systemically important financial institutions (the eight largest U.S. banks). If the new regulations had been in effect at December 31, 2013, they would not have materially impacted Sterling's or Sterling Bank's regulatory capital ratios.

Commitments to Subsidiary Bank. Under Federal Reserve policy, Sterling is expected to act as a source of financial strength to Sterling Bank, and to commit resources to support Sterling Bank in circumstances when we might not do so absent such policy. The Dodd-Frank Act requires this Federal Reserve policy to be implemented into formal regulations, which have not yet been proposed. Under the BHCA, the Federal Reserve may require a bank holding company to terminate any activity or relinquish control of a nonbank subsidiary, other than a nonbank subsidiary of a bank, upon the Federal Reserve's determination that such activity or control constitutes a serious risk to the financial soundness or stability of any depository institution subsidiary. Further, the Federal Reserve has discretion to require a bank holding company to divest itself of any bank or nonbank subsidiaries if the Federal Reserve determines that any such divestiture may aid the depository institution's financial condition. In addition, any capital loans by Sterling to Sterling Bank would be subordinate in right of payment to depositors and to certain other indebtedness of Sterling Bank.

If Sterling were to enter bankruptcy, any commitment by it to a federal bank regulatory agency to maintain the capital of Sterling Bank would generally be assumed by the bankruptcy trustee and entitled to a priority of payment. However, recent case law has held that, under certain circumstances, the assumption by the trustee and the priority of payment may be disallowed. It is not clear what impact, if any, this case law would have on our obligations in such an event.

Prompt Corrective Action. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 ("FDICIA") established a system of prompt corrective action to resolve the problems of undercapitalized insured depository institutions. Under this system, the federal banking regulators are required to rate insured depository institutions on the basis of five capital categories as described above under "Capital Requirements." The federal banking regulators are also required to take mandatory supervisory actions and are authorized to take other discretionary actions with respect to insured depository institutions in the three undercapitalized categories, the severity of which will depend upon the capital category in which the insured depository institution is assigned. Generally, subject to a narrow exception, FDICIA requires the banking regulators to appoint a receiver or conservator for an insured depository institution that is critically undercapitalized. The federal banking regulations specify the relevant capital level for each category.

FDICIA generally prohibits a depository institution from making any capital distribution, including payment of a dividend, or paying any management fee to its holding company if the depository institution would thereafter be undercapitalized. See

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"Dividends." "Undercapitalized" depository institutions are also subject to restrictions on borrowing from the Federal Reserve System, may not accept brokered deposits absent a waiver from the FDIC, and are subject to growth limitations. In addition, a depository institution's holding company must guarantee a capital plan, up to an amount equal to the lesser of 5% of the depository institution's assets at the time it becomes undercapitalized or the amount of the capital deficiency when the institution fails to comply with the plan. Federal banking regulators may not accept a capital plan without determining, among other things, that the plan is based on realistic assumptions and is likely to succeed in restoring the depository institution's capital. If a depository institution fails to submit an acceptable plan, it is treated as if it is significantly undercapitalized.

"Significantly undercapitalized" depository institutions may be subject to a number of requirements and restrictions, including orders to sell sufficient voting stock to become adequately capitalized, requirements to reduce total assets, and cessation of receipt of deposits from correspondent banks. "Critically undercapitalized" institutions are subject to the appointment of a receiver or conservator.

Washington state law gives the WDFI powers similar to those granted to the FDIC under the prompt corrective action provisions of FDICIA.

Dividends. Sterling is a legal entity separate and distinct from Sterling Bank and other subsidiaries. The principal source of funds for Sterling's payment of dividends on its capital stock and principal and interest on its debt is dividends from Sterling Bank. Various federal and state statutory provisions and regulations limit the amount of dividends, if any, Sterling, Sterling Bank and certain other subsidiaries may pay without regulatory approval.

Under the Federal Reserve guidance reissued on February 24, 2009 the Federal Reserve may restrict Sterling's ability to pay dividends on any class of capital stock or any other tier 1 capital instrument if it is not deemed to have a strong capital position. In addition, dividends may have to be reduced or eliminated if:

• Sterling's net income available to shareholders for the past four quarters, net of dividends previously paid during that period, is not sufficient to fully fund the dividends;

• Sterling Bank's prospective rate of earnings retention is not consistent with the holding company's capital needs and overall current and prospective financial condition; or

• Sterling will not meet, or is in danger of not meeting, Sterling's minimum regulatory capital adequacy ratios.

The FDIC has the authority to prohibit Sterling Bank from engaging in unsafe or unsound practices in conducting its business, and the payment of dividends, depending on the Bank's financial condition, could be deemed an unsafe or unsound practice. The ability of Sterling Bank to pay dividends in the future will continue to be influenced by bank regulatory capital guidelines, and is subject to regulatory approval.

Under Washington banking law, Sterling Bank may not pay a dividend greater than its retained earnings without WDFI approval. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling Bank had an accumulated deficit of $633.0 million, and is therefore generally required to seek approval to pay any dividends. Sterling Bank, however, has been granted a waiver that remains in effect so long as certain capital requirements and regulatory exam ratings are maintained.

FDICIA generally prohibits a depository institution from making any capital distribution, including payment of a dividend, or paying any management fee to its holding company if the institution would thereafter be undercapitalized. In addition, federal and state banking regulations applicable to us and our bank subsidiaries require minimum levels of capital that limit the amounts available for payment of dividends.

Deposit Insurance and Assessments. Deposits held by Sterling Bank are insured by the DIF as administered by the FDIC. The Dodd-Frank Act raised the standard maximum deposit insurance amount to $250,000 per depositor, per insured depository institution for each account ownership category.

The FDIC maintains the DIF by assessing each depository institution an insurance premium. The amount of the FDIC assessments paid by a DIF member institution is based on its relative risk of default as measured by the company's FDIC supervisory rating, and other various measures, such as the level of brokered deposits, secured debt and debt issuer ratings.

In February 2011, the FDIC redefined the deposit insurance assessment base, and updated the assessment rates. The DIF assessment base rate currently ranges from 2.5 to 45 basis points for institutions that do not trigger factors for brokered deposits

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and unsecured debt, and higher rates for those that do trigger those risk factors. On October 9, 2012, the FDIC revised this guidance to clarify definitions used to identify concentrations in certain high risk assets of depository institutions with more than $10 billion in assets, and provides for higher premiums in cases where high risk assets are in excess of prescribed thresholds.

The Dodd-Frank Act effects further changes to the law governing deposit insurance assessments. There is no longer an upper limit for the reserve ratio designated by the FDIC each year, and the maximum reserve ratio may not be less than 1.35% of insured deposits, or the comparable percentage of the assessment base. Under prior law the maximum reserve ratio was 1.15%. The Dodd-Frank Act permits the FDIC until September 30, 2020 to raise the reserve ratio to 1.35%. The FDIC is required to offset the effect of increased assessments necessitated by the Dodd-Frank Act on insured depository institutions with total consolidated assets of less than $10 billion. The Dodd-Frank Act also eliminates requirements under prior law that the FDIC pay dividends to member institutions if the reserve ratio exceeds certain thresholds. In lieu of dividends, the FDIC will adopt lower rate schedules when the reserve ratio exceeds certain thresholds.

Transactions with Affiliates and Insiders. A variety of legal limitations restrict Sterling Bank from lending or otherwise supplying funds or in some cases transacting business with Sterling or its nonbank subsidiaries. Sterling Bank is subject to Sections 23A and 23B of the Federal Reserve Act and Federal Reserve Regulation W. Section 23A places limits on the amount of covered transactions which include loans or extensions of credit to, investments in or certain other transactions with, affiliates as well as the amount of advances to third parties collateralized by the securities or obligations of affiliates. The aggregate of all covered transactions is limited to 10% of the bank's capital and surplus for any one affiliate and 20% for all affiliates. Furthermore, within the foregoing limitations as to amount, each covered transaction must meet specified collateral requirements ranging from 100% to 130%. Also, banks are prohibited from purchasing low quality assets from an affiliate.

Section 23B, among other things, prohibits an institution from engaging in certain transactions with affiliates unless the transactions are on terms substantially the same, or at least as favorable to the bank, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with nonaffiliated companies. Except for limitations on low quality asset purchases and transactions that are deemed to be unsafe or unsound, Regulation W generally excludes affiliated depository institutions from treatment as affiliates. Transactions between a bank and any of its subsidiaries that are engaged in certain financial activities may be subject to the affiliated transaction limits. The Federal Reserve also may designate bank subsidiaries as affiliates.

Banks are also subject to quantitative restrictions on extensions of credit to executive officers, directors, principal shareholders, and their related interests. In general, such extensions of credit: (1) may not exceed certain dollar limitations; (2) must be made on substantially the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with third parties; and (3) must not involve more than the normal risk of repayment or present other unfavorable features. Certain extensions of credit also require the approval of a bank's board of directors.

The Dodd-Frank Act expands the 23A and 23B affiliate transaction rules. Among other things, upon the statutory changes' effective date, the scope of the definition of "covered transaction" under 23A will expand, collateral requirements will increase and certain exemptions will be eliminated.

Standards for Safety and Soundness. The Federal Deposit Insurance Act requires the federal bank regulators to prescribe the operational and managerial standards for all insured depository institutions relating to: (1) internal controls; (2) information systems and audit systems; (3) loan documentation; (4) credit underwriting; (5) interest rate risk exposure; and (6) asset quality.

The regulators also must prescribe standards for earnings, and stock valuation, as well as standards for compensation, fees and benefits. The Interagency Guidelines Prescribing Standards for Safety and Soundness set forth the safety and soundness standards used to identify and address problems at insured depository institutions before capital becomes impaired. Under the rules, if a regulator determines that a bank fails to meet any standards prescribed by the guidelines, the regulator may require the bank to submit an acceptable plan to achieve compliance, consistent with deadlines for the submission and review of such safety and soundness compliance plans.

Regulatory Examination. Federal and state banking regulations mandate that Sterling provide audited financial statements in compliance with minimum standards and procedures. Sterling and Sterling Bank must undergo regular on-site examinations by the appropriate banking agency. Regulators conducting an examination have complete access to the books and records of the examined institution. The results of the examination are confidential. The cost of examinations may be assessed against the examined institution as the agency deems necessary or appropriate.

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State Law and Regulation. Sterling Bank, as a Washington state-chartered institution, is subject to regulation by the WDFI, which conducts regular examinations to ensure that its operations and policies conform with applicable law and safe and sound banking practices. Among other things, state law regulates the amount of credit that can be extended to any one borrower and the amount of money that can be invested in various types of assets. Sterling Bank generally cannot extend credit to any one borrower in an amount greater than 20% of Sterling Bank's capital and surplus. State law also regulates the types of loans Sterling Bank can make. With the WDFI's approval, Sterling Bank can currently invest up to 10% of its total assets or 50% of its net worth (whichever is less) in other corporations, whether or not such corporations are engaged in activities related to Sterling Bank's business, but such authority is subject to restrictions imposed by federal law. Sterling Bank also operates depository branches within the states of Oregon, Idaho and California, and therefore, its operations in these states are subject to the supervision of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services, the Idaho Department of Finance and the California Department of Financial Institutions, as applicable. Sterling and its subsidiaries are also required to comply with the applicable laws and regulations for the various states in which it does business.

Community Reinvestment Act. The Community Reinvestment Act (the "CRA") requires that the appropriate federal bank regulator evaluate the records of Sterling Bank in meeting the credit needs of its local community, including low and moderate income neighborhoods. These evaluations are considered by regulatory agencies in their review of applications to approve bank mergers, acquisitions, and new branches or facilities. Failure to adequately meet these criteria could result in additional requirements and limitations on the Bank. As of Sterling Bank's last CRA regulatory exam completed in May 2012, the rating was "satisfactory."

Consumer Protection Regulations. Retail activities of banks are subject to a variety of statutes and regulations designed to protect consumers. The Dodd-Frank Act established the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (the "CFPB") that, together with the statute's changes to consumer protection laws such as limits on debit card interchange fees and provisions on mortgage-related matters, will likely increase the compliance costs of consumer banking operations. Interest and other charges collected or contracted for by banks are subject to state usury laws and federal laws concerning interest rates. The CFPB has exclusive authority to require reports and conduct examinations, for purposes of ensuring compliance with federal consumer financial laws and related matters, of insured depository institutions with more than $10 billion of assets. For insured depository institutions with assets of $10 billion or less, the CFPB can require reports and conduct examinations on a sample basis.

Loan operations are also subject to federal laws applicable to credit transactions, such as:

• the federal Truth-In-Lending Act and Regulation Z issued by the Federal Reserve, governing disclosures of credit terms to consumer borrowers;

• the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act and Regulation C issued by the Federal Reserve, requiring financial institutions to provide information to enable the public and public officials to determine whether a financial institution is fulfilling its obligation to help meet the housing needs of the community it serves;

• the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and Regulation B issued by the Federal Reserve, prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, creed or other prohibited factors in extending credit;

• the Fair Credit Reporting Act and Regulation V issued by the Federal Reserve, governing the use and provision of information to consumer reporting agencies;

• the Fair Debt Collection Act, governing the manner in which consumer debts may be collected by collection agencies; and

• the guidance of the various federal agencies charged with the responsibility of implementing such federal laws.

Deposit operations also are subject to:

• the Truth in Savings Act and Regulation DD issued by the Federal Reserve, which requires disclosure of deposit terms to consumers;

• Regulation CC issued by the Federal Reserve, which relates to the availability of deposit funds to consumers;

• the Right to Financial Privacy Act, which imposes a duty to maintain the confidentiality of consumer financial records and prescribes procedures for complying with administrative subpoenas of financial records; and

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• the Electronic Funds Transfer Act and Regulation E issued by the Federal Reserve, which govern automatic deposits to and withdrawals from deposit accounts and customers' rights and liabilities arising from the use of ATMs and other electronic banking services.

Commercial Real Estate Lending. Lending operations that involve concentrations of commercial real estate loans are subject to enhanced scrutiny by federal banking regulators. The regulators have advised financial institutions of the risks posed by commercial real estate lending concentrations. Such loans generally include land development, construction loans and loans secured by multifamily property, and nonfarm, nonresidential real property where the primary source of repayment is derived from rental income associated with the property. The guidance prescribes guidelines for examiners to help identify institutions that are potentially exposed to excessive risk concentrations and may warrant greater supervisory scrutiny when:

• total construction and land development loans represent 100% or more of the institution's total risk-based capital (the ratio was 15% for Sterling Bank at December 31, 2013), or

• total commercial real estate loans, as defined, represent 300% or more of the institution's total risk-based capital (the ratio was 295% for Sterling Bank at December 31, 2013), and the outstanding balance of the institution's commercial real estate loan portfolio has increased by 50% or more during the prior 36 months.

The Dodd-Frank Act contains provisions on credit risk retention that require federal banking regulators to adopt regulations mandating the retention of 5% of the credit risk of certain loans transferred, sold or conveyed through issuances of asset-backed securities. Implementing regulations will provide for the allocation of the risk retention obligation between securitizers and originators of loans.

Branching. The Riegle-Neal Interstate Banking and Branching Efficiency Act of 1994 (the "Interstate Act") permits nationwide interstate banking and branching under certain circumstances. This legislation generally authorizes interstate branching and relaxes federal law restrictions on interstate banking. Currently, bank holding companies may purchase banks in any state, and states may not prohibit these purchases. Additionally, banks are permitted to merge with banks in other states, as long as the home state of neither merging bank has opted out under the legislation. The Interstate Act requires regulators to consult with community organizations before permitting an interstate institution to close a branch in a low-income area.

Washington enacted "opting in" legislation in accordance with the Interstate Act, allowing banks to engage in interstate merger transactions, subject to certain "aging" requirements. Once an out-of-state bank has acquired a bank within the state, either through merger or acquisition of all or substantially all of the bank's assets, the out-of-state bank may open additional branches within the state. In addition, an out-of-state bank may establish a new branch in Washington or acquire a branch in Washington if the out-of-state bank's home state gives Washington banks substantially the same or more favorable rights to establish and maintain branches in that state.

Anti-Tying Restriction. In general, a bank may not extend credit, lease, sell property, or furnish any services or fix or vary the consideration for products and services on the condition that: (1) the customer obtain or provide some additional credit, property, or services from or to the bank or bank holding company or their subsidiaries; or (2) the customer not obtain some other credit, property, or services from a competitor, except to the extent reasonable conditions are imposed to assure the soundness of the credit extended. A bank may, however, offer combined-balance products and may otherwise offer more favorable terms if a customer obtains two or more traditional bank products. Also, certain foreign transactions are exempt from the general rule.

Anti-Money Laundering. Financial institutions must maintain anti-money laundering programs that include established internal policies, procedures, and controls; a designated compliance officer; an ongoing employee training program; and the periodic testing of the program. Sterling Bank is prohibited from entering into specified financial transactions and account relationships and must meet enhanced standards for due diligence in dealings with foreign financial institutions and foreign customers. We also must take reasonable steps to conduct enhanced scrutiny of account relationships to guard against money laundering and to report any suspicious transactions. Recent laws provide law enforcement authorities with increased access to financial information maintained by banks. Anti-money laundering requirements have been substantially strengthened as a result of the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (the "USA Patriot Act"), enacted in 2001 and renewed in 2006 and extended, in part, in 2011. Bank regulators routinely examine institutions for compliance with these requirements and must consider compliance in connection with the regulatory review of applications.

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The USA Patriot Act amended, in part, the Bank Secrecy Act and provides for the facilitation of information sharing among governmental entities and financial institutions for the purpose of combating terrorism and money laundering. The statute also creates enhanced information collection tools and enforcement mechanics for the U.S. government, including: (1) requiring standards for verifying customer identification at account opening; (2) promulgating rules to promote cooperation among financial institutions, regulators, and law enforcement entities in identifying parties that may be involved in terrorism or money laundering; (3) requiring reports by nonfinancial trades and businesses filed with the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network for transactions exceeding $10,000; and (4) mandating the filing of suspicious activities reports if a bank believes a customer may be violating U.S. laws and regulations. The statute also requires enhanced due diligence requirements for financial institutions that administer, maintain, or manage private bank accounts or correspondent accounts for non-U.S. persons.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation may send bank regulators lists of the names of persons suspected of involvement in terrorist activities. Sterling Bank may be subject to a request for a search of its records for any relationships or transactions with persons on those lists and may be required to report any identified relationships or transactions. Furthermore, the Office of Foreign Assets Control ("OFAC") is responsible for helping to ensure that U.S. entities do not engage in transactions with certain prohibited parties, as defined by various Executive Orders and Acts of Congress. OFAC has sent, and will send, bank regulators lists of names of persons and organizations suspected of aiding, harboring or engaging in terrorist acts, known as Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons. If we find a name on any transaction, account or wire transfer that matches the OFAC list, the account is frozen, a suspicious activity report is filed and the appropriate authorities are notified.

Privacy and Credit Reporting. Financial institutions are required to disclose their policies for collecting and protecting confidential customer information. Customers generally may prevent financial institutions from sharing nonpublic personal financial information with nonaffiliated third parties, with some exceptions, such as the processing of transactions requested by the consumer. Financial institutions generally may not disclose certain consumer or account information to any nonaffiliated third party for use in telemarketing, direct mail marketing or other marketing. Federal and state bank regulators have prescribed standards for maintaining the security and confidentiality of consumer information, and we are subject to such standards, as well as certain federal and state laws or standards for notifying consumers in the event of a security breach.

Sterling Bank utilizes credit bureau data for loan underwriting purposes. Use of such data is regulated under the Fair Credit Reporting Act and Regulation V on a uniform, nationwide basis, including credit reporting, prescreening, sharing of information between affiliates and the use of credit data. The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act, which amended the Fair Credit Reporting Act, permits states to enact identity theft laws that are consistent with the conduct required by the provisions of that Act.

Enforcement Powers. Banks and their "institution-affiliated parties," including directors, management, employees, agents, independent contractors and consultants, such as attorneys and accountants, and others who participate in the conduct of the institution's affairs, are subject to potential civil and criminal penalties for violations of law, regulations or written orders of a government agency. Violations can include failure to timely file required reports, filing false or misleading information or submitting inaccurate reports. Civil penalties may be as much as $1 million a day for such violations and criminal penalties for some financial institution crimes may include imprisonment for 20 years. Regulators have flexibility to commence enforcement actions against institutions and institution-affiliated parties, and the FDIC has the authority to terminate deposit insurance. When issued by a banking regulator, cease-and-desist orders or other regulatory agreements may, among other things, require affirmative action to correct any harm resulting from a violation or practice, including restitution, reimbursement, indemnifications or guarantees against loss. A financial institution may also be ordered to restrict its growth, dispose of certain assets, rescind agreements or contracts, or take other actions determined to be appropriate by the ordering agency. Federal and state banking regulators also may remove a director or officer from an insured depository institution (or bar them from the industry) if a violation is willful or reckless.

Corporate Governance. The Dodd-Frank Act contains a number of provisions that require changes to financial institutions' corporate governance and executive compensation practices, including proxy access for publicly-traded banks' director nominations, clawback of incentive-based compensation from executive officers and increased disclosure on compensation arrangements. Publicly-traded bank holding companies with more than $10 billion in assets are required to have risk committees with a number of independent directors to be determined by the Federal Reserve and that include at least one risk management expert. Sterling has had such a committee in place since 2011.

Monetary Policy and Economic Controls. Our earnings are affected by the policies of regulatory authorities, including the monetary policy of the Federal Reserve. An important function of the Federal Reserve is to promote orderly economic growth

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by influencing interest rates and the supply of money and credit. Among the methods that have been used to achieve this objective are open market operations in U.S. government securities, changes in the discount rate for bank borrowings, expanded access to funds for nonbanks and changes in reserve requirements against bank deposits. These methods are used in varying combinations to influence overall growth and distribution of bank loans, investments and deposits, interest rates on loans and securities, and rates paid for deposits. In recent years, in response to the financial crisis, the Federal Reserve has created several innovative programs to stabilize certain financial institutions and to ensure the availability of credit. The effects of the various Federal Reserve policies on our future business prospects and earnings cannot be predicted.

Depositor Preference Statute. Federal law provides that deposits and certain claims for administrative expenses and employee compensation against an insured depository institution are afforded priority over other general unsecured claims against such institution, including federal funds and letters of credit, in the liquidation or other resolution of the institution by any receiver.

Environmental Laws. Hazards related to the environment have become a source of high risk and potentially unlimited liability for financial institutions relative to their loans. Contaminated properties owned by an institution's borrowers may result in a drastic reduction in the value of the collateral securing the institution's loans to such borrowers, high clean-up costs to the borrower affecting its ability to repay the loans, the subordination of any lien in favor of the institution to a state or federal lien securing clean-up costs, and liability to the institution for clean-up costs if it forecloses on the contaminated property or becomes involved in the management of the property. To minimize this risk, Sterling may require an environmental examination and report with respect to the property of any borrower or prospective borrower if circumstances affecting the property indicate a potential for contamination, taking into consideration the potential loss to the institution in relation to the burdens to the borrower. This examination must be performed by an engineering firm experienced in environmental risk studies and acceptable to the institution, with the costs of such examinations and reports being the responsibility of the borrower. These costs may be substantial and may deter a prospective borrower from entering into a loan transaction with Sterling. Sterling is not aware of any borrower who is currently subject to any environmental investigation or clean-up proceeding that is likely to have a material adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of Sterling.

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Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This annual report on Form 10-K contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "may," "can," "believe," "expect," "project," "intend," "likely," "plan," "seek," "should," "would," "estimate" and similar expressions and any other statements that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical facts. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about Sterling's plans, objectives, expectations, strategies and intentions and other statements contained in this release that are not historical facts and pertain to Sterling's future operating results and capital position, including Sterling's ability to reduce future loan losses, improve its deposit mix, execute its asset resolution initiatives, execute its lending initiatives, contain costs and potential liabilities, realize operating efficiencies, execute its business strategy, make dividend payments, compete in the marketplace and provide increased customer support and service. All forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in these forward-looking statements because such statements are inherently subject to significant assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond Sterling's control. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following: changes in general economic conditions that may, among other things, increase default and delinquency risks in Sterling's loan portfolios; shifts in market interest rates that may result in lower interest rate margins; shifts in the demand for Sterling's loan and other products; changes in the monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; changes in laws, regulations or the competitive environment; exposure to material litigation; the timing to consummate the proposed Merger; the risk that a condition to closing of the proposed Merger may not be satisfied; the risk that a regulatory approval that may be required for the proposed Merger is not obtained or is obtained subject to conditions that are not anticipated; the ability of Sterling and Umpqua to achieve the synergies and value creation contemplated by the proposed Merger, or lower-than-expected revenue or cost savings or other issues in connection with mergers and acquisitions generally; the parties' ability to promptly and effectively integrate the businesses of Sterling and Umpqua; the diversion of management time on issues related to the Merger; and the failure to consummate or delay in consummating the Merger for other reasons. Sterling undertakes no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For additional information concerning factors that could cause actual conditions, events or results to materially differ from those described in the forward-looking statements, please refer to the factors set forth under the headings "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in this annual report and Umpqua's most recent Form 10-K and to Sterling's and Umpqua's most recent Form 10-Q and 8-K reports, which are available online at www.sec.gov. No assurances can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what impact they will have on the results of operations or financial condition of Sterling or Umpqua.

Where You Can Find More Information

The periodic reports Sterling files with the SEC are available on Sterling's website at www.SterlingFinancialCorporation.com after the reports are filed with the SEC. The SEC maintains a website located at www.sec.gov that also contains this information. The information on Sterling's website and the SEC's website is not part of this annual report on Form 10-K. Sterling will provide you with copies of these reports, without charge, upon request made to:

Investor Relations

Sterling Financial Corporation

111 North Wall Street

Spokane, Washington 99201

(509) 358-8097

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Item 1A.Risk Factors

Set forth below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and in other documents we file with the SEC are risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

The risks described below are not the only ones facing our company. Additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations. Our business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects could be materially and adversely affected by any of these risks. The trading price of, and market for, shares of Sterling common stock could decline due to any of these risks.

The Merger is subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions, which may not be received, may take longer than expected or may impose conditions that are not presently anticipated or that could have an adverse effect on the combined company following the Merger. Before the Merger and the Bank Merger may be completed, Sterling and Umpqua must obtain approvals from the Federal Reserve Board and the FDIC. Other approvals, waivers or consents from regulators may also be required. In determining whether to grant these regulatory approvals the regulators consider a variety of factors, including the regulatory standing of each party and the financial and managerial resources and future prospects of the combined company. An adverse development in either company's regulatory standing or other factors could result in an inability to obtain approval or delay receipt of approval. These regulators may impose conditions on the completion of the Merger or the Bank Merger or require changes to the terms of the Merger or the Bank Merger. Such conditions or changes could have the effect of delaying or preventing completion of the Merger or the Bank Merger or imposing additional costs on or limiting the revenues of the combined company following the Merger and the Bank Merger, any of which might have an adverse effect on the combined company following the Merger.

Combining the two companies may be more difficult, costly or time consuming than expected and the anticipated benefits and cost savings of the Merger may not be realized. Sterling and Umpqua have operated and, until the completion of the Merger, will continue to operate, independently. The success of the Merger, including anticipated benefits and cost savings, will depend, in part, on Umpqua's ability to successfully combine and integrate the businesses of Sterling and Umpqua in a manner that permits growth opportunities and does not materially disrupt the existing customer relations nor result in decreased revenues due to loss of customers. It is possible that the integration process could result in the loss of key employees, the disruption of either company's ongoing businesses or inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures and policies that adversely affect the combined company's ability to maintain relationships with clients, customers, depositors and employees or to achieve the anticipated benefits and cost savings of the Merger. If difficulties with the integration process are encountered, the anticipated benefits of the Merger may not be realized fully or at all, or may take longer to realize than expected. As with any merger of financial institutions, there also may be business disruptions that cause Sterling to lose customers or cause customers to remove their accounts from Sterling and move their business to competing financial institutions. Integration efforts between the two companies will also divert management attention and resources. These integration matters could have an adverse effect on Sterling during this transition period and for an undetermined period on the combined company after completion of the Merger.

Termination of the merger agreement could negatively impact Sterling. If the merger agreement is terminated, there may be various consequences. For example, Sterling's businesses may have been impacted adversely by the failure to pursue other beneficial opportunities due to the focus of management on the Merger, without realizing any of the anticipated benefits of completing the Merger. Additionally, if the merger agreement is terminated, the market price of Sterling's common stock could decline to the extent that the current market price reflects a market assumption that the Merger will be completed. If the Merger agreement is terminated under certain circumstances, Sterling may be required to pay to Umpqua a termination fee of $75 million.

Sterling will be subject to business uncertainties and contractual restrictions while the Merger is pending. Uncertainty about the effect of the Merger on employees and customers may have an adverse effect on Sterling. These uncertainties may impair Sterling's ability to attract, retain and motivate key personnel until the Merger and associated integration process is completed, and could cause customers and others that deal with Sterling to seek to change or terminate existing business relationships with Sterling. Retention of certain employees by Sterling may be challenging while the Merger is pending, as certain employees may experience uncertainty about their future roles with Sterling. If key employees depart because of issues relating to the uncertainty and difficulty of integration or a desire not to remain with Sterling, Sterling's business could be harmed. In addition, subject to certain exceptions, Sterling has agreed to operate its business in the ordinary course and to comply with certain other operational restrictions, prior to closing.

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If the Merger is not completed, Sterling will have incurred substantial expenses without realizing the expected benefits of the Merger. Sterling has incurred and will incur substantial expenses in connection with the negotiation and completion of the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement. If the Merger is not completed, Sterling would have to recognize these expenses without realizing the expected benefits of the Merger.

The merger agreement limits Sterling's ability to pursue acquisition proposals and requires Sterling to pay a termination fee of $75 million under limited circumstances relating to alternative acquisition proposals. Additionally, these and other provisions of the merger agreement, Sterling's articles of incorporation and bylaws and Washington law may deter potential acquirers. The merger agreement prohibits Sterling and Umpqua from soliciting, initiating, knowingly encouraging or knowingly facilitating certain third-party acquisition proposals. The merger agreement also provides that Sterling must pay a termination fee in the amount of $75 million in the event that the merger agreement is terminated under certain circumstances, including a termination resulting from Sterling's failure to abide by certain obligations not to solicit alternate acquisition proposals. Further, the merger agreement also prohibits Sterling from waiving confidentiality and standstill provisions in its favor in existing agreements with third parties. These provisions may discourage or prohibit a potential competing acquirer that might have an interest in acquiring all or a significant part of Sterling from considering or proposing an alternative acquisition. In addition, under Washington law, certain business combinations involving Sterling with its large shareholders are restricted without the approval of the board of directors of Sterling.

These provisions and agreements, and other provisions of Sterling's articles of incorporation or bylaws or of the Washington Business Corporation Act, could make it more difficult for an acquirer to acquire control of Sterling or may discourage a potential competing acquirer.

Our allowance for loan losses, or the amount of capital we hold, may be insufficient. We maintain an allowance for credit losses, with the level of the allowance reflecting estimates as to future losses. The determination of the appropriate level of the allowance for credit losses inherently involves a high degree of subjectivity and requires management to make significant estimates and judgments regarding current credit risks and future trends, all of which may undergo material changes. If our estimates prove to be incorrect, our allowance for credit losses may not be adequate to cover our actual loan losses. Bank regulatory agencies periodically review the adequacy of our allowance for credit losses as part of their examination process, and may require an increase therein. We are required to maintain a certain level of capital. The level of required capital to hold may change through new regulations. Also, the level of capital we hold changes, based on our financial performance, and balance sheet size and composition. We may be required to raise capital in the future, and it may be at a time that the capital is not available to us or not available at favorable terms.

Credit risk concentrations could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. A large portion of our loan portfolio is secured by real estate, which is primarily located in the Pacific Northwest and California. In addition, a significant portion of our multifamily loans originated since 2011 are secured by properties located in the greater Los Angeles and San Francisco markets. Deterioration in the economic conditions or a prolonged delay in economic recovery in our primary market areas could result in the following consequences, any of which could materially and adversely affect our business: collateral for loans, especially real estate, may decline in value, in turn reducing customers' borrowing power and the value of assets and collateral associated with our existing loans; loan delinquencies may increase; problem assets and foreclosures may increase; demand for our products and services may decrease; and access to low cost or noninterest bearing deposits may decrease.

Approximately 45% of our loan portfolio was comprised of commercial real estate loans as of December 31, 2013. Included in commercial real estate loans are investor real estate loans, which may have a higher degree of risk than some other loan types, as they typically are dependent on the cash flows generated from the underlying property. Commercial and consumer delinquency levels and real estate market values could affect our level of net charge-offs and provision for credit losses, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and prospects. Acts of nature, including earthquakes, floods and fires, which may cause uninsured damage and other loss of value to real estate that secures these loans, may also have a negative impact on our financial condition. In addition, we may face risks associated with our real estate lending under various federal, state and local environmental laws that impose certain requirements on the owner or operator of a property.

Interest rate risk is inherently present in our business. As a financial institution, the substantial majority of our assets and liabilities are subject to interest rate risk, which affects both the life and value of our interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities, such as loans, investments and MBS, mortgage servicing rights, deposits and borrowings. The level of sensitivity for

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these interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities to changes in interest rates is measured by duration, with duration mismatches combined with changes from both shifts and twists in the yield curve affecting both our future net interest income and the current economic value of Sterling's equity. Exposure to interest rate risk may have an adverse effect on our profitability, financial condition and liquidity, including a decline in our net interest margin, fair value charges on certain assets, such as mortgage servicing rights and requests for additional collateral on certain of our secured borrowings. Increases in interest rates may shorten the life of certain of our liabilities, and we would have to replace these funds with alternative funds at a higher cost, or sell assets to meet liquidity requirements. Decreases in interest rates may shorten the life of certain of our assets, and we would be faced with reinvesting the funds at lower rates or retiring certain of our funding liabilities at unfavorable prices.

General economic conditions and developments affect our operating results and financial condition. Our business is affected by conditions outside our control, including the rate of economic growth in general, the level of unemployment, increases in inflation and the level of interest rates. Economic conditions affect the level of demand for and the profitability of our products and services. A slowdown in the general economic recovery, particularly in the Western United States, could negatively impact our business. The fiscal and monetary policies of the United States government, and its level of indebtedness may have an impact on interest rates and inflation, which may adversely affect our profitability and financial condition. Our profitability is greatly dependent upon our earning a positive interest spread between our loan and securities portfolio, and our funding deposits and borrowings. Changes in the level of interest rates, or a prolonged unfavorable interest rate environment, or a decrease in our level of deposits that increases our cost of funds could negatively affect our profitability and financial condition.

We are currently subject to certain pending litigation, and may be subject to litigation in the future. A securities class action lawsuit has been filed against Sterling and certain of Sterling's current and former officers alleging that the defendants violated sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act and SEC Rule 10b-5 by making false and misleading statements concerning our business and financial results. This lawsuit is premised on allegations that: 1) the defendants failed to adequately disclose the extent of Sterling's delinquent commercial real estate, construction and land development loans, properly record losses for impaired loans, properly reserve for loan losses, and properly account for goodwill and deferred tax assets, thereby causing Sterling's stock price to be artificially inflated during the purported class period; or 2) the defendants failed to prevent Sterling from issuing improper financial statements, maintain a sufficient allowance for loan and lease losses, and establish effective credit risk management and oversight mechanisms.

In connection with the Merger, purported Sterling shareholders have filed putative shareholder class action lawsuits against Sterling, the members of the Sterling board of directors and Umpqua.  Among other remedies, the plaintiffs seek to enjoin the Merger. Although the parties to the litigation have entered into a memorandum of understanding to settle the consolidated litigation, the settlement is subject to certain conditions. If the cases are not resolved, these lawsuits could prevent or delay completion of the Merger and result in substantial costs to Umpqua and Sterling, including any costs associated with the indemnification of directors and officers. Plaintiffs may file additional lawsuits against Umpqua,Sterling and/or the directors and officers of either company in connection with the Merger.

These lawsuits could divert resources of our management and cause us to incur significant expenses for legal fees and costs, including those associated with our advancement of fees and costs on behalf of our current and former officers and directors. We cannot predict the outcome of these lawsuits. An unfavorable outcome of these lawsuits could result in the payment of substantial damages in connection with a settlement or judgment and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. See Item 3 "Legal Proceedings."

We are subject to extensive regulation, including Federal Reserve guidelines and rules, which may affect our business operations and profitability, required levels of capital and liquidity, including limitations on our ability to pay dividends.We are subject to extensive regulation under federal and state laws, including regulation and supervision by the Federal Reserve, FDIC, WDFI and the SEC. Sterling is also subject to the listing standards of the NASDAQ Capital Market. If our regulators determine that we have failed to comply with our regulatory requirements, including minimum capital levels, we may need to raise additional capital, which could result in the dilution of our existing shareholders, or reduce or eliminate our common stock dividend. We could become subject to regulatory enforcement actions, which could result in material limitations on our business operations. The Dodd-Frank Act imposes stress testing and corporate governance requirements on banking entities with $10 billion or greater of assets, which we will have to comply with in future periods, if the Merger is not completed.

As of December 31, 2013, Sterling had assets in excess of $10 billion. Sterling therefore will be subject to the Durbin Amendment beginning July 1, 2014. If the Merger is not completed, without the anticipated volume increase in fees, the overall level of our earnings could decline by approximately $6 million annually due to the cap on debit card transaction fees.

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The level of our liquidity and our ability to repay indebtedness, pay dividends and repurchase shares depends upon the results of operations and financial condition of Sterling Bank. Sterling is a separate and distinct legal entity from its subsidiaries, and receives substantially all of its revenue from dividends paid by Sterling Bank. There are legal limitations on the extent to which Sterling Bank may extend credit, pay dividends or otherwise supply funds to, or engage in transactions with, Sterling. The inability to receive dividends from Sterling Bank would reduce liquidity available to Sterling, which could adversely affect Sterling's financial condition or Sterling's ability to pay dividends on its common stock.

As a result of our 2010 recapitalization, a limited number of shareholders are substantial holders of our stock. As of January 31, 2014, certain Thomas H. Lee funds (collectively, "THL") and Warburg Pincus Private Equity X, L.P. ("Warburg Pincus") each beneficially owned approximately 23% of our outstanding common stock. Each has a representative on our Board of Directors. Accordingly, THL and Warburg Pincus have substantial influence over the election of directors to our board and over corporate policy, including decisions to enter into mergers or other extraordinary transactions. In pursuing their economic interests, THL and Warburg Pincus may make decisions with respect to fundamental corporate transactions that may not be aligned with the interests of other shareholders.

We may suffer substantial losses due to our agreements to indemnify certain investors against a broad range of potential claims. We have agreed to indemnify THL and Warburg Pincus, along with the other private placement investors in the 2010 recapitalization, for a broad range of claims, including any losses arising out of or resulting from any legal, administrative or other proceedings arising in connection with the recapitalization transactions. While these indemnities are capped at the aggregate amount of capital raised of $730 million, if all or some claims were successfully brought against Sterling, it could potentially result in significant losses.

We rely on certain key personnel, whose loss could materially adversely affect us. Certain of our employees and executives are key contributors to our financial success, including, but not limited to, the generation and identification of lending and deposit customer relationships, and the management of our company. Our ability to retain these individuals is a large factor in our ability to be successful, and any failure to do so could have a materially adverse effect on our business.

We could be materially and adversely affected if we or any of our officers or directors fail to comply with bank and other laws and regulations. Sterling and Sterling Bank are subject to extensive regulation by U.S. federal and state regulatory agencies and face risks associated with investigations and proceedings by regulatory agencies, including those that we may believe to be immaterial. Like any corporation, we are also subject to risk arising from potential employee misconduct, including non-compliance with our policies. Any interventions by authorities may result in adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties, injunctions, suspension or expulsion of our officers or directors from the banking industry or other relief. In addition to the monetary consequences, these measures could, for example, impact our ability to engage in, or impose limitations on, certain of our businesses. The number of these investigations and proceedings, as well as the amount of penalties and fines sought, has increased substantially in recent years with regard to many firms in the industry. Significant regulatory action against us or our officers or directors could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations or cause us significant reputational harm.

We may have reduced access to wholesale funding sources. As a part of our liquidity management, we use a number of funding sources in addition to core deposits, maturities and sales of loans and investments. Our financial flexibility will be severely constrained if we are unable to maintain sufficient collateral or access to funding on acceptable terms. If we are required to rely more heavily on more expensive funding sources, and our revenues do not increase in proportion with our costs, our profitability will be adversely impacted.

A decline in the value of our Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB") common stock may occur, resulting in an other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI") charge which would cause our earnings and shareholders' equity to decrease. We own common stock of the FHLB in order to qualify for membership in the FHLB system, which enables us to borrow funds under the FHLB advance program. The carrying value of our FHLB common stock was $95.3 million as of December 31, 2013, the substantial majority of which was with the FHLB of Seattle. FHLB stock does not have a readily determinable fair value and the equity ownership rights are more limited than would be the case for ownership rights in a public company. FHLB stock is viewed as a long term investment and is carried at cost.

Our business relies heavily on technology and our ability to manage the operational risks associated with technology. We depend on internal and outsourced technology to support all aspects of our business operations. Interruption or failure of these systems creates a risk of business loss as a result of adverse customer experiences, damage claims and civil fines. Risk management programs are expensive to maintain and will not protect us from all risks associated with maintaining the security

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of customer information, proprietary data, external and internal intrusions, disaster recovery and failures in the controls used by vendors. Our computer systems could be vulnerable to unforeseen problems. Because we conduct part of our business over the Internet and outsource several critical functions to third parties, operations will depend on our ability, as well as the ability of third-party service providers, to protect computer systems and network infrastructure against damage from fire, power loss, telecommunications failure, physical break-ins or similar catastrophic events. Any damage or failure that causes interruptions in operations could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, a significant barrier to online financial transactions is the secure transmission of confidential information over public networks. Our Internet banking system relies on encryption and authentication technology to provide the security and authentication necessary to effect secure transmission of confidential information. Advances in computer capabilities, new discoveries in the field of cryptography or other developments could result in a compromise or breach of the algorithms our third-party service providers use to protect customer transaction data. If any such compromise of security were to occur, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We depend, and will continue to depend, to a significant extent, on a number of relationships with third-party service providers. Specifically, we receive core systems processing, residential mortgage servicing, essential web hosting and other Internet systems, and deposit and other transaction processing services from third-party service providers. If these third-party service providers experience difficulties or terminate their services, and we are unable to replace them with other service providers, our operations could be interrupted. If an interruption were to continue for a significant period of time, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Our internal control systems could fail to detect certain events. We are subject to certain operational risks, including but not limited to data processing system failures and errors and customer or employee fraud. We maintain a system of internal controls to mitigate against such occurrences and maintain insurance coverage for such risks, but should such an event occur that is not prevented or detected by our internal controls, uninsured or in excess of applicable insurance limits, it could have a significant adverse impact on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

We could be held responsible for environmental liabilities of properties we acquire. We may acquire real property for various reasons, including, for example, as a result of foreclosing on a defaulted mortgage loan to recover our investment, or in connection with acquiring the assets and operations of other banks. We may be subject to environmental liabilities related to the real property as a result of hazardous substances or wastes, contaminants, pollutants or sources thereof that may be discovered on such properties during our ownership or after a sale to a third party. The amount of environmental liability could exceed the value of the real property because we may be fully liable for the entire cost of any removal and clean-up on an acquired property, the cost of removal and clean-up may exceed the value of the property, and we may be unable to recover costs from any third party. In addition, we may find it difficult or impossible to sell the property prior to or following any environmental remediation.

The financial services industry in general is highly competitive. Our industry is highly competitive in regard to the pricing and features of existing products and services, growth opportunities from the acquisition of other companies in whole or in part, and the building of new customer relationships. A number of our competitors are significantly larger than we are and may have certain advantages from a greater access to capital and other resources, as well as larger lending limits and branch systems, and a wider array of banking services. Our growth and opportunities for growth are greatly affected by this competitive environment.

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Item 1B.Unresolved Staff Comments

Not applicable.

Item 2.Properties

Sterling owns the building in which its headquarters are located in Spokane, Washington. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling also owned 90 of its 173 depository banking offices, while leasing the remainder of the properties. These facilities are located throughout Sterling's banking network, primarily in the Pacific Northwest. Additionally, Sterling operates 56 non-depository loan production offices throughout the western United States, the majority of which are leased. The properties that Sterling occupies are used for corporate purposes across all of its business segments. See Note 7 of "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements."

During 2013, Sterling sold four branches, while during 2012, Sterling sold its Montana operations, which included seven branches.

Item 3.Legal Proceedings

Merger Litigation. Sterling, its directors and Umpqua are named as defendants in three lawsuits pending in the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County, which have been consolidated under the caption In re Sterling Financial Corp. Merger Litigation, Lead No. 13-2-03848-4. The consolidated litigation generally alleges that the directors of Sterling breached their duties to the Sterling shareholders by approving the Merger, failing to take steps to maximize shareholder value, engaging in a flawed sales process, and agreeing to deal protection provisions in the merger agreement that are alleged to unduly favor Umpqua. Umpqua is alleged to have aided and abetted the alleged breaches of duty. The consolidated litigation also alleges that the disclosures approved by the Sterling board in connection with the Merger and the vote thereon are false and misleading in various respects. As relief, the complaints seek, among other things, an injunction against consummation of the Merger, rescission of the Merger if it is effected, damages in an unspecified amount, and the payment of plaintiffs' attorneys' fees and costs. The defendants believe that the lawsuits are without merit. On January 16, 2014 the parties to the consolidated litigation entered into a memorandum of understanding to settle the consolidated litigation (such memorandum including plaintiffs' agreement to stay the consolidated litigation, except for proceedings relating to the settlement), subject to court approval and other customary conditions, including the execution of definitive documentation. The proposed settlement covers all holders of Sterling common stock (other than the defendants and their immediate families, heirs and assigns) from and including November 1, 2012 until the consummation of the Merger. The proposed settlement provides for the defendants to make certain additional disclosures, which were included in the proxy statement/prospectus that was mailed to Sterling shareholders in connection with the special meeting at which the Merger was approved. The proposed settlement does not provide for any other consideration from the defendants, including any monetary consideration (other than potentially attorneys' fees as described in the following paragraph). Sterling shareholders who are members of the proposed settlement class will, at a later date, receive written notice containing the full terms of the proposed settlement and proposed release of class claims and related matters.

In the event that the parties enter into a settlement, a hearing will be scheduled at which the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County will consider the fairness, reasonableness, and adequacy of the settlement. If the settlement is finally approved by the court, it will resolve and release all claims in the consolidated litigation that were or could have been brought challenging any aspect of the proposed Merger, the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, and any disclosure made in connection therewith (but excluding dissenters' rights pursuant to Chapter 23B.13 of the WBCA), among other claims, pursuant to terms that will be disclosed to shareholders prior to final approval of the settlement. In addition, in connection with the settlement, the parties contemplate that plaintiffs' counsel will file a petition in the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County for an award of attorneys' fees and expenses to be paid by Sterling or its successor, which the defendants may oppose. Sterling or its successor will pay or cause to be paid any attorneys' fees and expenses awarded by the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County. There can be no assurance that the parties will ultimately enter into a settlement or that the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County will approve the settlement even if the parties were to enter into such stipulation. In such event, the proposed settlement as contemplated by the memorandum of understanding may be terminated. Sterling management believes the proposed settlement will have no adverse material impact on Sterling.

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Neither the memorandum of understanding nor the ultimate settlement is, and neither should be construed as, an admission of wrongdoing or liability by any defendant. Sterling, its directors and Umpqua continue to believe that the consolidated litigation is without merit and vigorously deny the allegations that Sterling's directors breached their fiduciary duties.

Securities Class Action Litigation. On December 11, 2009, a putative securities class action complaint, captioned City of Roseville Employees' Retirement System v. Sterling Financial Corp., et al., No. CV 09-00368-EFS, was filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Washington against Sterling and certain of its current and former officers. The Court appointed City of Roseville Employees' Retirement System as lead plaintiff on March 9, 2010. On June 18, 2010, lead plaintiff filed a consolidated complaint alleging that the defendants violated sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and SEC Rule 10b-5 by making false and misleading statements concerning our business and financial results. The consolidated complaint purported to be brought on behalf of a class of persons who purchased or otherwise acquired Sterling's stock during the period from July 23, 2008 to October 15, 2009. The consolidated complaint alleged that defendants violated Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 by failing to disclose the extent of Sterling's delinquent commercial real estate, construction and land development loans, properly record losses for impaired loans, and properly reserve for loan losses, thereby causing Sterling's stock price to be artificially inflated during the purported class period. Plaintiffs sought unspecified damages and attorneys' fees and costs. On August 30, 2010, Sterling moved to dismiss the Complaint. On March 2, 2011, after complete briefing, the court held a hearing on the motion to dismiss. On August 5, 2013, the court granted the motion to dismiss without prejudice. On October 11, 2013, the lead plaintiff filed an amended consolidated complaint. The amended consolidated complaint names the same defendants, specifies the same class period, alleges the same violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and seeks the same relief. The amended consolidated complaint contains similar allegations of improper disclosure regarding Sterling's lending practices, status of loans and reserving and accounting for loans. On January 24, 2014, Sterling moved to dismiss the amended consolidated complaint. Sterling believes the lawsuit is without merit and continues to vigorously defend against it. Failure by Sterling to obtain a favorable resolution of the claims set forth in the complaint could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Currently, a loss resulting from these claims is not considered probable or reasonably estimable in amount.

Additionally, Sterling is involved in ongoing litigation, primarily related to its normal business operations. When establishing a liability for contingent litigation losses, Sterling determines a range of potential losses for each matter that is both probable and estimable, and records the amount it considers to be the best estimate within the range. For these matters and others where an unfavorable outcome is reasonably possible but not probable, there is no estimable range of possible losses. Sterling believes that the eventual outcome from these cases will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position.

Item 4.Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

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PART II

Item 5.Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Sterling's common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol "STSA." As of January 31, 2014, Sterling's common stock was held by 1,236 shareholders of record. The following table sets forth certain per share information for Sterling's common stock for the periods indicated:

	2013 Quarters Ended
	December 31		September 30		June 30		March 31
Dividends declared per common share	$	0.20	$	0.20	$	0.55	$	0.00
Dividends paid per common share	0.20		0.55		0.20		0.00
Market price per common share:
High	35.20		29.76		23.80		22.52
Low	28.36		23.80		20.20		20.37
Quarter end	34.08		28.65		23.78		21.69
	2012 Quarters Ended
	December 31		September 30		June 30		March 31
Dividends declared per common share	$	0.65	$	0.15	$	0.00	$	0.00
Dividends paid per common share	0.65		0.15		0.00		0.00
Market price per common share:
High	23.22		23.00		21.18		21.94
Low	19.56		18.75		17.19		16.66
Quarter end	20.90		22.27		18.89		20.88

25

Information concerning securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans is set forth under the caption "Equity Compensation Plan Information" in Sterling's Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference. In the event that Sterling does not file a Proxy Statement as a result of consummating the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, Sterling will amend this Annual Report on Form 10-K to include the information required by this Item. The following graph, which is "furnished," not "filed," compares the cumulative return of our common stock during the five years ended December 31, 2013, with the Russell 2000 Index and the SNL Bank NASDAQ Index. The presentation assumes an initial investment of $100 and the reinvestment of dividends.

26

Item 6.Selected Financial Data

The following selected financial data is derived from Sterling's audited financial statements. The information below is not necessarily indicative of our future results of operations and should be read in conjunction with Item 1A, "Risk Factors," Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," and Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in order to fully understand the factors that may affect the comparability of the information presented below.

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011			2010			2009
Income Statement Data:	(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Interest income	$	379,021		$	389,200		$	404,292		$	445,133		$	599,347
Interest expense	54,787			84,522			109,097			161,106			255,370
Net interest income	324,234			304,678			295,195			284,027			343,977
Provision for credit losses	0			10,000			30,000			250,229			681,371
Net interest income (loss) after provision for credit losses	324,234			294,678			265,195			33,798			(337,394		)
Noninterest income	140,586			154,253			126,328			136,965			123,814
Noninterest expense before impairment charge	333,312			355,253			352,390			395,045			369,974
Goodwill impairment	0			0			0			0			227,558
Total noninterest expense	333,312			355,253			352,390			395,045			597,532
Income (loss) before income taxes	131,508			93,678			39,133			(224,282		)	(811,112		)
Income tax (provision) benefit (1)	(37,867		)	292,043			0			0			(26,982		)
Net income (loss)	93,641			385,721			39,133			(224,282		)	(838,094		)
Preferred stock dividend	0			0			0			(11,598		)	(17,369		)
Other shareholder allocations (2)	0			0			0			(520,263		)	0
Net income (loss) applicable to common shareholders	$	93,641		$	385,721		$	39,133		$	(756,143	)	$	(855,463	)
Earnings (loss) per common share:
Basic (3)	$	1.50		$	6.21		$	0.63		$	(53.05	)	$	(1,087.41	)
Diluted (3)	1.48			6.14			0.63			(53.05		)	(1,087.41		)
Dividends declared per common share (3)	$	0.95		$	0.80		$	0.00		$	0.00		$	0.00
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic (3)	62,290,361			62,122,862			61,955,659			14,253,869			786,701
Diluted (3)	63,371,763			62,772,079			62,231,208			14,253,869			786,701
Other Data:
Book value per common share (3)	$	19.50		$	19.58		$	14.16		$	12.45		$	36.80
Tangible book value per common share (3)	$	18.41		$	18.91		$	13.96		$	12.17		$	9.21
Return on average assets	0.97		%	4.10		%	0.42		%	(2.21		)%	(6.81		)%
Return on average common equity	7.7		%	35.8		%	4.8		%	(297.2		)%	(129.8		)%
Dividend payout ratio	64		%	13		%	0		%	0		%	0		%
Shareholders' equity to total assets	11.8		%	13.2		%	9.6		%	8.1		%	3.0		%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets (4)	11.2		%	12.8		%	9.4		%	8.0		%	0.1		%
Efficiency ratio (5)	69.2		%	71.1		%	74.7		%	81.9		%	69.1		%
Tax equivalent net interest margin	3.64		%	3.46		%	3.29		%	2.83		%	2.92		%
Nonperforming assets to total assets	1.21		%	2.28		%	4.01		%	8.83		%	9.08		%
Employees (full-time equivalents)	2,547			2,532			2,496			2,498			2,641
Depository branches	173			174			175			178			178

27

	As of December 31,
	2013			2012			2011			2010			2009
Balance Sheet Data:	(in thousands)
Total assets	$	10,319,249		$	9,236,910		$	9,193,237		$	9,493,169		$	10,877,423
Loans receivable, net	7,331,228			6,101,749			5,341,179			5,379,081			7,344,199
Investments and MBS - available for sale	1,429,812			1,513,157			2,547,876			2,825,010			2,160,325
Investments - held to maturity	165			206			1,747			13,464			17,646
Deposits	7,074,990			6,436,117			6,485,818			6,911,007			7,775,190
FHLB advances	1,146,103			605,330			405,609			407,211			1,337,167
Securities sold under repurchase agreements and funds purchased	531,679			586,867			1,055,763			1,032,512			1,049,146
Other borrowings	245,299			245,294			245,290			245,285			248,281
Shareholders' equity	1,215,947			1,217,923			878,557			770,767			323,249
Regulatory Capital Ratios:
Sterling:
Tier 1 leverage ratio	11.6		%	12.1		%	11.4		%	10.1		%	3.5		%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio	14.9		%	17.5		%	17.8		%	16.2		%	4.9		%
Total risk-based capital ratio	16.1		%	18.7		%	19.1		%	17.5		%	7.9		%
Tier 1 common capital ratio	11.8		%	13.6		%	13.8		%	12.4		%	3.6		%
Sterling Bank:
Tier 1 leverage ratio	11.3		%	12.0		%	11.1		%	9.8		%	4.2		%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio	14.5		%	17.2		%	17.4		%	15.7		%	5.9		%
Total risk-based capital ratio	15.8		%	18.5		%	18.7		%	17.0		%	7.3		%

(1) The income tax benefit during 2012 was from the release of a deferred tax asset valuation allowance.

(2) The August 26, 2010 conversion of Series C preferred stock into common stock resulted in an increase in income available to common shareholders. The October 22, 2010 conversion of Series B and D preferred stock into common stock resulted in a decrease in income available to common shareholders.

(3) Reflects the 1-for-66 reverse stock split in November 2010.

(4) Common shareholders' equity less goodwill and other intangible assets, divided by assets, less goodwill and other intangible assets.

(5) The efficiency ratio is noninterest expense, excluding OREO and amortization of other intangible assets, divided by net interest income (tax equivalent) plus noninterest income, excluding gain on sales of securities, other-than-temporary impairment losses on securities, charge on prepayment of debt, gain on branch divestiture and bargain purchase gain.

28

Item 7.Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto presented elsewhere in this report. This report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. For a discussion of the risks and uncertainties inherent in such statements, see "Business—Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors."

Overview

Net income for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $93.6 million, $385.7 million, and $39.1 million, respectively. The changes in operating results over the years presented included an increase in net interest income and net interest margin, and lower credit costs. A significant item affecting comparability over the years presented was an income tax benefit of $292.0 million recorded during 2012 in connection with the release of a deferred tax asset valuation allowance, while 2013 included an income tax provision of $37.9 million. Sterling did not recognize any federal or state income tax provision or benefit during 2011. Mortgage banking income declined for 2013, as compared with 2012, from lower refinancing activity.

The net interest margin expanded to 3.64% for the year ended December 31, 2013, from 3.46% and 3.29% for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, principally driven by a decline in funding costs. The decline in funding costs reflected a shift in the mix and repricing of deposits, as well as a lower balance of wholesale borrowings from securities sold under repurchase agreements in conjunction with the balance sheet repositioning activity undertaken during the fourth quarter of 2012. Net interest income expanded by $19.6 million during 2013, and $9.5 million during 2012, reflecting the decline in funding costs and an increase in interest income on loans, partially offset by a decline in interest income on MBS.

During 2013, there was no provision for credit losses, compared with a $10.0 million and $30.0 million provision during 2012 and 2011, respectively, reflecting the decline in nonperforming assets. At December 31, 2013, the ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets was 1.21% compared to 2.28% at December 31, 2012, and 4.01% at December 31, 2011.

On February 28, 2013, Sterling completed the acquisition of Borrego for $8.7 million in consideration, adding an aggregate of $103.7 million of gross loans and $118.2 million of deposits. A bargain purchase gain of $7.5 million was recorded in connection with the acquisition, reflecting the fair value of net assets acquired in excess of the purchase price. On May 10, 2013, Sterling paid $123.0 million to acquire the Puget Sound operations of Boston Private, which added $278.5 million of performing loans and $168.2 million of deposits. On October 1, 2013, Sterling paid $42.9 million in cash to acquire Newport Beach, Calif.-based CNB. At closing, CNB had assets of $260.8 million, loans of $164.8 million, and deposits of $189.6 million.

On September 11, 2013, Sterling entered into a definitive agreement to merge with and into Umpqua, with headquarters in Portland, Oregon. Immediately after the Merger, Sterling Bank will merge with and into Umpqua Bank, an Oregon state chartered bank and wholly owned subsidiary of Umpqua. Upon completion of the mergers, the combined company will operate under the Umpqua Bank name and brand. The transaction is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2014, subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions. Under the terms of the Merger, Sterling shareholders will receive 1.671 shares of Umpqua common stock and $2.18 in cash, without interest, for each share of Sterling common stock. On February 25, 2014, the shareholders of both Sterling and Umpqua approved the Merger.

Results of Operations

The most significant component of earnings for Sterling is net interest income, which is the difference between interest income, earned primarily from loans, MBS and investment securities, and interest expense on deposits and borrowings. Net interest spread refers to the difference between the yield on interest earning assets and the rate paid on interest bearing liabilities. Net interest margin refers to net interest income divided by total average interest earning assets and is influenced by the level and relative mix of interest earning assets and interest bearing liabilities. The following table sets forth, on a tax equivalent basis, information with regard to Sterling's net interest income, net interest spread and net interest margin:

29

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013						2012						2011
	Average Balance		Interest Income/ Expense		Yields/ Rates		Average Balance		Interest Income/ Expense		Yields/ Rates		Average Balance		Interest Income/ Expense		Yields/ Rates
ASSETS:	(in thousands)
Loans:
Mortgage	$	4,368,794	$	196,027	4.49	%	$	3,834,111	$	188,563	4.92	%	$	3,484,108	$	177,992	5.11	%
Commercial and consumer	2,887,515		143,419		4.97	%	2,572,469		143,392		5.57	%	2,481,470		144,892		5.84	%
Total loans (1)	7,256,309		339,446		4.68	%	6,406,580		331,955		5.18	%	5,965,578		322,884		5.41	%
MBS (2)	1,257,119		31,015		2.47	%	1,890,314		47,442		2.51	%	2,375,515		71,216		3.00	%
Investments and cash (2)	414,905		12,587		3.01	%	520,590		13,971		2.68	%	676,677		14,659		2.17	%
FHLB stock	96,603		0		0.00	%	98,893		0		0.00	%	99,531		0		0.00	%
Total interest earning assets	9,024,936		383,048		4.24	%	8,916,377		393,368		4.41	%	9,117,301		408,759		4.48	%
Noninterest earning assets (3)	651,142						494,185						186,238
Total average assets	$	9,676,078					$	9,410,562					$	9,303,539
LIABILITIES and EQUITY:
Deposits:
Interest bearing transaction	$	746,934	267		0.04	%	$	657,231	334		0.05	%	$	503,091	504		0.10	%
Savings and MMDA	2,465,697		3,401		0.14	%	2,261,858		3,912		0.17	%	1,994,335		7,004		0.35	%
Time deposits	1,748,838		20,195		1.15	%	2,250,999		33,451		1.49	%	3,063,679		52,126		1.70	%
Total interest bearing deposits	4,961,469		23,863		0.48	%	5,170,088		37,697		0.73	%	5,561,105		59,634		1.07	%
Borrowings	1,608,257		30,924		1.92	%	1,470,244		46,825		3.18	%	1,703,782		49,463		2.90	%
Total interest bearing liabilities	6,569,726		54,787		0.83	%	6,640,332		84,522		1.27	%	7,264,887		109,097		1.50	%
Noninterest bearing transaction	1,772,182		0		0.00	%	1,559,828		0		0.00	%	1,093,252		0		0.00	%
Total funding liabilities	8,341,908		54,787		0.66	%	8,200,160		84,522		1.03	%	8,358,139		109,097		1.31	%
Other noninterest bearing liabilities	111,806						131,860						126,435
Total average liabilities	8,453,714						8,332,020						8,484,574
Total average equity	1,222,364						1,078,542						818,965
Total average liabilities and equity	$	9,676,078					$	9,410,562					$	9,303,539
Net interest income and spread (4)			$	328,261	3.41	%			$	308,846	3.14	%			$	299,662	2.98	%
Net interest margin (4)					3.64	%					3.46	%					3.29	%
Deposits:
Total interest bearing deposits	$	4,961,469	$	23,863	0.48	%	$	5,170,088	$	37,697	0.73	%	$	5,561,105	$	59,634	1.07	%
Noninterest bearing transaction	1,772,182		0		0.00	%	1,559,828		0		0.00	%	1,093,252		0		0.00	%
Total deposits	$	6,733,651	$	23,863	0.35	%	$	6,729,916	$	37,697	0.56	%	$	6,654,357	$	59,634	0.90	%

(1) Includes gross nonaccrual loans.

(2) Does not include market value adjustments on available for sale securities.

(3) Includes charge-offs on nonperforming loans ("confirmed losses") and the allowance for loan losses.

(4) Interest income on certain loans and securities are presented gross of their applicable tax savings using a 37% effective tax rate.

30

Changes in Sterling's net interest income are a function of changes in both rates and volumes of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Volume refers to the dollar level of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. The following table presents the composition of the change in net interest income, on a tax equivalent basis, for the periods presented. Interest income from municipal loans and bonds is presented gross of applicable tax savings. For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, the following table provides information on changes attributable to:

• Volume—changes in volume multiplied by comparative period rate;

• Rate—changes in rate multiplied by comparative period volume; and

• Rate/volume—changes in rate multiplied by changes in volume.

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013												2012
	Increase (Decrease) Due to:												Increase (Decrease) Due to:
							Rate/												Rate/
	Volume			Rate			Volume			Total			Volume			Rate			Volume			Total
Interest income:	(in thousands)
Loans:
Mortgage	$	26,296		$	(16,527	)	$	(2,305	)	$	7,464		$	17,881		$	(6,642	)	$	(668	)	$	10,571
Commercial and consumer	17,561			(15,621		)	(1,913		)	27			5,313			(6,573		)	(240		)	(1,500		)
Total loans	43,857			(32,148		)	(4,218		)	7,491			23,194			(13,215		)	(908		)	9,071
MBS	(15,891		)	(805		)	269			(16,427		)	(14,546		)	(11,598		)	2,370			(23,774		)
Investment and cash equivalents	(2,834		)	1,800			(350		)	(1,384		)	(3,381		)	3,500			(807		)	(688		)
Total interest income	25,132			(31,153		)	(4,299		)	(10,320		)	5,267			(21,313		)	655			(15,391		)
Interest expense:
Deposits	(1,521		)	(12,830		)	517			(13,834		)	(4,193		)	(19,086		)	1,342			(21,937		)
Borrowings	(4,395		)	(18,554		)	7,048			(15,901		)	(6,780		)	(4,800		)	8,942			(2,638		)
Total interest expense	(5,916		)	(31,384		)	7,565			(29,735		)	(10,973		)	(23,886		)	10,284			(24,575		)
Changes in net interest income on a tax equivalent basis	$	31,048		$	231		$	(11,864	)	$	19,415		$	16,240		$	2,573		$	(9,629	)	$	9,184

2013 versus 2012

Net Interest Income. Net interest income for the year ended December 31, 2013 expanded by $19.6 million and $9.5 million over 2012 and 2011, respectively, reflecting the decline in funding costs and an increase in interest income on loans, partially offset by a decline in interest income on MBS. Funding costs declined as a result of the decline in time deposits, as well as a lower balance of higher cost wholesale borrowings from securities sold under repurchase agreements. Average loan balances increased 13% and 7% during 2013 and 2012 respectively, while average MBS balances declined 33% and 20% over the same comparable periods. The decline in average MBS balances reflected sales during 2012 to fund the reduction in repurchase agreements.

Provision for Credit Losses. During 2013, there was no provision for credit losses, compared with $10.0 million and $30.0 million for 2012 and 2011, respectively. The reduced level of credit loss provisioning reflects improvement in asset quality as evidenced by the decline in nonperforming loans.

31

Noninterest Income. Noninterest income was as follows for the years presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013		2012			% change
	(in thousands)
Fees and service charges	$	60,917	$	55,773		9	%
Mortgage banking operations	59,956		97,292			(38	)%
Bank-owned life insurance ("BOLI")	6,235		8,625			(28	)%
Gains on sales of securities, net	0		23,835			(100	)%
Other-than-temporary impairment losses on securities	0		(6,819		)	(100	)%
Charge on prepayment of debt	0		(35,342		)	(100	)%
Gains on other loan sales	3,998		4,372			(9	)%
Other	9,480		6,517			45	%
Total noninterest income	$	140,586	$	154,253		(9	)%

Fees and service charges increased over the years presented due to an increase in deposit fee income and loan prepayment penalties associated with growth from acquisitions. The decline in BOLI income from 2012 was due to a $2.4 million death benefit recognized in 2012. During 2013, Sterling had no gains or losses on the sale of securities, compared with gains of $23.8 million in 2012. Also during 2012, Sterling recognized an other-than-temporary impairment charge of $6.8 million, and a prepayment of debt charge of $35.3 million, with no similar charges in the 2013. Gains on other loan sales during the 2013 were due mostly to the sale of SBA loans, while in 2012 the gains on other loan sales were due mostly to the sale of nonperforming loans.

Other noninterest income during 2013 included a $7.5 million bargain purchase gain in connection with the Borrego acquisition, and gains from branch divestitures. Three branches were sold during 2013 at a gain of $893,000, before associated expenses of $254,000, while 2012 included a gain of $9.1 million, before associated selling expenses, in conjunction with the Montana divestiture. Other noninterest income during 2012 also included a negative valuation adjustment of $600,000 on interest rate swaps.

During 2013, mortgage banking income declined 38% compared to 2012, as a result of lower margins and declining volumes. Included in income from mortgage banking operations during 2013 was a $6.9 million reversal of a valuation allowance on mortgage servicing rights, respectively, compared with write-downs of $230,000 during 2012. During 2013, income from mortgage banking also included a $1.3 million reduction in the fair value of a pool of portfolio residential mortgage loans that were previously classified as held for sale, compared with a $534,000 reduction during 2012.

The following table presents components of mortgage banking operations for the years presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Residential loan sales	$	2,714,825		$	2,648,502
Change in warehouse and interest rate locks	(453,495		)	303,668
Total mortgage banking activity	$	2,261,330		$	2,952,170
Margin on mortgage banking activity	2.09		%	3.20		%

32

Noninterest Expense. Noninterest expense was as follows for the years presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		% change
	(in thousands)
Employee compensation and benefits	$	181,544	$	189,025	(4	)%
Occupancy and equipment	39,935		42,930		(7	)%
Data processing	27,984		27,091		3	%
Professional fees	16,143		16,691		(3	)%
Depreciation	13,093		11,690		12	%
Merger and acquisition	10,837		11,976		(10	)%
Advertising	7,942		12,688		(37	)%
OREO operations	7,389		11,829		(38	)%
Amortization of other intangible assets	6,799		6,780		0	%
Travel and entertainment	5,911		5,756		3	%
FDIC insurance	5,827		7,493		(22	)%
Other	9,908		11,304		(12	)%
Total noninterest expense	$	333,312	$	355,253	(6	)%

Employee compensation and benefits during 2013 included acquisition related activity and new employees added in Southern California, while 2012 included severance costs related to a reduction in force and a lower level of deferred commissions on loan production. Occupancy and equipment have declined from the 2012 comparable periods, as a result of branch consolidations and sales. OREO operations also declined from the comparable periods, as a result of a lower level of OREO properties. Advertising expense during 2012 included costs related to the rebranding of Sterling Savings Bank as Sterling Bank. Other noninterest expense during 2013 included a refund of $1.8 million for Washington State Business and Occupation tax, while other noninterest expense during 2012 included a similar refund of $1.9 million, and a charge of $2.0 million in connection with a tentative settlement related to a previously disclosed ERISA class action complaint.

Income Tax Provision. During 2013, Sterling recognized income tax expense of $37.9 million, reflecting a 29% effective tax rate. During 2012, an income tax benefit of $292.0 million was recognized, as a result of reversing substantially all of Sterling's deferred tax asset valuation allowance. The effective tax rate for 2013 reflects permanent differences between book income and tax income from the Borrego acquisition bargain purchase gain, as well as tax exempt municipal bond and BOLI income. As of December 31, 2013, the net deferred tax asset was $284.1 million, including $242.3 million of net operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards, compared with $292.1 million as of December 31, 2012, including $274.0 million of net operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards.

2012 versus 2011

Net Interest Income. Sterling's net interest income for the year ended December 31, 2012 compared with the year ended December 31, 2011 increased $9.5 million, as funding costs declined more than interest income. Interest income from mortgage backed securities declined $23.8 million, offsetting an increase in interest income on loans of $9.1 million. Interest expense declined $24.6 million, mainly from the lower cost of deposits.

The average balance of mortgage backed securities declined $485.2 million, or 20% during 2012, reflecting prepayments and sales. The decline in the yield on MBS over the period was due to prepayments and sales of securities with higher yields than new securities purchased and the average yield of the portfolio, reflecting market conditions and balance sheet management, including the management of prepayment and interest rate risk in the MBS portfolio.

The increase in interest income from higher average loan balances was partially offset by yield compression. Average loan balances increased $441.0 million, or 7% during 2012, reflecting growth from loan originations and purchases, and loans acquired in the First Independent transaction, net of repayments. Similar to MBS, the loan portfolio's average yield declined during 2012, as new loan production was at rates below that of maturities and repayments, and adjustable rate loans repriced downward. These reductions in yield were partially offset by the decline in the level of nonperforming loans and discount accretion on acquired loans.

33

During 2012, the composition of deposits shifted, including a decrease of $812.7 million, or 27% in the average balance of time deposits, and an increase of $466.6 million, or 43% in noninterest bearing transaction accounts. This change in deposit mix contributed to the 34 basis point decline in the cost of deposits.

Provision for Credit Losses. Sterling recorded a provision for credit losses of $10.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, as compared with $30.0 million in 2011. The reduced level of credit loss provisioning reflects improvement in asset quality as evidenced by the decline in nonperforming loans and charge-offs. Net charge-offs were $30.6 million during 2012, a decline of 69% over 2011. Charge-offs for unfunded commitments during 2012 included approximately $4 million in connection with a mortgage repurchase settlement with a financial institution.

Noninterest Income. Noninterest income was as follows for the years presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011			% change
	(in thousands)
Fees and service charges	$	55,773		$	50,073		11	%
Mortgage banking operations	97,292			49,163			98	%
BOLI	8,625			6,448			34	%
Gains on sales of securities, net	23,835			16,236			47	%
Other-than-temporary impairment losses on securities	(6,819		)	0			*
Charge on prepayment of debt	(35,342		)	0			*
Gains on other loan sales	4,372			4,442			(2	)%
Other	6,517			(34		)	*
Total noninterest income	$	154,253		$	126,328		22	%

* Results are not meaningful.

The increase in income from mortgage banking operations reflected higher margins on loan sales and volumes of residential lending. Historically low interest rates on home loans resulted in an elevated level of refinancing activity during 2012, while expansion in the margin on loans sales reflected conditions in the mortgage market.

The growth in fees and service charges was primarily due to increased activity related to the deposit accounts and trust business acquired in the First Independent transaction. BOLI income during 2012 included a $2.4 million gain relating to a death benefit.

During 2012, Sterling incurred prepayment penalties of $35.3 million related to the prepayment of $300 million of repurchase agreements. Security sales during 2012 included the management of prepayment and interest rate risk in the portfolio, as well as the sale of securities that were serving as collateral for the repurchase agreement borrowings that were prepaid. Other activity in the securities portfolio included the recognition of an other-than-temporary impairment charge of $6.8 million related to a single issuer trust preferred security during the second quarter of 2012. The security was sold during the fourth quarter at a gain of $2.5 million.

Other noninterest income during 2012 included a gain on the sale of assets of $9.1 million, before associated selling expenses, recognized in conjunction with the Montana divestiture. Gains on the sale of other loans related to the sale of nonperforming loans, multifamily, and SBA loans.

34

The following table presents components of mortgage banking operations for the years presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Residential loan sales	$	2,648,502		$	2,059,351
Change in warehouse and interest rate locks	303,668			(41,886		)
Total mortgage banking activity	$	2,952,170		$	2,017,465
Margin on residential loan sales	3.20		%	2.45		%

Noninterest Expense. Noninterest expense was as follows for the years presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012		2011		% change
	(in thousands)
Employee compensation and benefits	$	189,025	$	171,643	10	%
OREO operations	11,829		41,500		(71	)%
Occupancy and equipment	42,930		39,878		8	%
Data processing	27,091		24,171		12	%
FDIC insurance	7,493		14,328		(48	)%
Professional fees	16,691		13,902		20	%
Depreciation	11,690		12,184		(4	)%
Advertising	12,688		10,017		27	%
Travel and entertainment	5,756		5,420		6	%
Amortization of other intangible assets	6,780		4,851		40	%
Merger and acquisition	11,976		1,012		1,083	%
Other	11,304		13,484		(16	)%
Total noninterest expense	$	355,253	$	352,390	1	%

Employee compensation and benefits during 2012 included severance costs related to a reduction in force, an increase in commissions due to growth in mortgage banking and multifamily originations, and growth from the First Independent transaction. The reduction in OREO expenses was related to the decline in nonperforming assets and the stabilization of collateral values. The decline in Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") insurance expense was due to a lower risk based assessment rate being applicable. Advertising expense during 2012 included costs related to the rebranding of Sterling Savings Bank as Sterling Bank, with no rebranding charges recognized in the comparative periods. Merger and acquisition expense for the 2012 periods reflected costs associated with the First Independent transaction, including system conversion costs, professional fees, employee severance and contingent consideration from the earn-out provision. As of December 31, 2012, we had $15.4 million accrued for the First Independent contingent consideration, with a maximum of an additional $1.6 million to be recognized in 2013. Other noninterest expense during 2012 included a refund of $1.9 million for Washington State Business and Occupation tax, and a charge of $2.0 million in connection with a tentative settlement related to a previously disclosed ERISA class action complaint. In 2011, other noninterest expense included $3.5 million of legal settlement expense.

Income Tax Provision. During 2012, Sterling recorded a $292.0 million income tax benefit, which was the result of reversing the deferred tax asset valuation allowance. Sterling did not recognize any federal or state income tax expense during 2011. As of December 31, 2012, the net deferred tax asset was $292.1 million, including $274.0 million of net operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards. As of December 31, 2011, Sterling had a fully reserved net deferred tax asset of $327.4 million, including $285.0 million of net operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards.

35

Financial Position

Assets. At December 31, 2013, Sterling's assets were $10.32 billion, an increase of $1.08 billion from $9.24 billion at December 31, 2012. The Borrego acquisition in the first quarter of 2013 added total assets of $141.6 million, the Boston Private transaction in the second quarter of 2013 added total assets of $292.1 million, and the CNB acquisition in the fourth quarter of 2013 added total assets of $260.8 million. The other primary contributor to the increase in assets was organic loan growth.

Investments and MBS. The following table sets forth the composition of Sterling's investment and MBS portfolio at the dates indicated:

	December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(in thousands)
MBS	$	1,239,900	$	1,308,838	$	2,320,934
Municipal bonds	189,690		204,306		207,456
Other	387		219		21,233
Total	$	1,429,977	$	1,513,363	$	2,549,623
Available for sale	$	1,429,812	$	1,513,157	$	2,547,876
Held to maturity	165		206		1,747
Total	$	1,429,977	$	1,513,363	$	2,549,623

The MBS portfolio decrease in 2013 reflects principal paydowns, partially offset by purchases. In addition, the MBS portfolio had a net unrealized loss of $9.0 million as of December 31, 2013, compared to a net unrealized gain of $45.1 million as of December 31, 2012, reflecting the changes in the interest rate environment for MBS during 2013. The decline in the MBS portfolio during 2012 reflected a reduction in repurchase agreement borrowings that were collateralized by securities due to the balance sheet repositioning activity undertaken during the fourth quarter of 2012. As of December 31, 2013, the weighted average life of the MBS portfolio was 4.8 years, and its effective duration was 4.1%. This compares with a weighted average life of 3.3 years, and an effective duration of 2.4% at December 31, 2012. On December 31, 2013, the investments and MBS portfolio had a net unrealized loss of $4.0 million versus a net unrealized gain of $60.9 million at December 31, 2012.

The following table provides the carrying value and weighted average yield of Sterling's investment and MBS portfolio by contractual maturity. Actual maturities for MBS will differ from contractual maturities by the level of prepayments experienced on the underlying mortgages.

36

	December 31, 2013
	One Year or Less			After One through Five Years			After Five through Ten Years			After Ten Years			Total
	(in thousands)
MBS
Balance	$	0		$	8,310		$	44,991		$	1,186,599		$	1,239,900
Weighted average yield	0.00		%	4.56		%	2.43		%	2.61		%	2.62		%
Municipal bonds
Balance	$	0		$	12,085		$	38,548		$	139,057		$	189,690
Weighted average yield (1)	0.00		%	5.11		%	4.15		%	4.60		%	4.54		%
Other
Balance	$	0		$	0		$	0		$	387		$	387
Weighted average yield	0.00		%	0.00		%	0.00		%	0.00		%	0.00		%
Total carrying value	$	0		$	20,395		$	83,539		$	1,326,043		$	1,429,977
Weighted average yield	0.00		%	4.89		%	3.22		%	2.81		%	2.87		%

⁽¹⁾ The weighted average yield on municipal bonds are not presented on a tax-equivalent basis.

Loans Receivable. The following table sets forth the composition of Sterling's loan portfolio by class of loan at the dates indicated:

	2013					2012					2011					2010					2009
	Amount			%		Amount			%		Amount			%		Amount			%		Amount			%
	(in thousands)
Residential real estate	$	1,119,574		15	%	$	806,722		13	%	$	688,020		12	%	$	758,410		13	%	$	839,170		11	%
Commercial real estate ("CRE"):
Investor CRE	1,114,768			15		1,219,847			20		1,275,667			23		1,314,657			24		1,403,560			18
Multifamily	2,156,434			29		1,580,289			25		1,001,479			18		517,022			9		517,408			7
Construction	71,693			1		74,665			1		174,608			3		525,668			9		1,516,108			20
Total CRE	3,342,895			45		2,874,801			46		2,451,754			44		2,357,347			42		3,437,076			45
Commercial:
Owner occupied CRE	1,431,140			19		1,276,591			20		1,272,461			24		1,238,744			23		1,424,980			18
Commercial & Industrial ("C&I")	742,142			10		540,499			9		431,693			8		531,682			9		876,964			11
Total commercial	2,173,282			29		1,817,090			29		1,704,154			32		1,770,426			32		2,301,944			29
Consumer	822,068			11		754,621			12		674,961			12		744,068			13		1,116,522			15
Gross loans receivable	7,457,819			100	%	6,253,234			100	%	5,518,889			100	%	5,630,251			100	%	7,694,712			100	%
Deferred loan fees, net	10,703					2,860					(252		)			(4,114		)			(7,070		)
Allowance for loan losses	(137,294		)			(154,345		)			(177,458		)			(247,056		)			(343,443		)
Loans receivable, net	$	7,331,228				$	6,101,749				$	5,341,179				$	5,379,081				$	7,344,199

Since 2010, multifamily loan balances have grown 317%, or $1.64 billion, commercial loan balances have grown 23%, or $402.9 million, and residential real estate loan balances have grown 48%, or $361.2 million. The decline in loan balances from 2009 to 2010 reflected net charge-offs of $347.0 million during 2010, and a reduction of $1.22 billion, or 72%, of portfolio loan

37

originations for 2010 as compared with 2009, which was due to Sterling's level of nonperforming assets and capital position at the time, as well as the recession.

The acquisition of Borrego during the first quarter 2013 added $103.7 million of loans, which were primarily SBA loans that have been included in the table above in owner occupied CRE. The Boston Private transaction during the second quarter of 2013 added $278.5 million of loans, approximately 37% of which were commercial, 36% were CRE, and 26% were residential real estate. The acquisition of CNB during the fourth quarter 2013 added $164.8 million of loans, which were primarily CRE and C&I loans. Excluding loans acquired in these transactions, gross portfolio loan balances expanded at an annualized rate of 12% during the year ended December 31, 2013.

The following table sets forth the loan loss allowance by category and the percentage of loans in each category to total loans:

	December 31,
	2013				2012				2011				2010				2009
	Allowance for loan losses		Loans to total loans		Allowance for loan losses		Loans to total loans		Allowance for loan losses		Loans to total loans		Allowance for loan losses		Loans to total loans		Allowance for loan losses		Loans to total loans
	(in thousands)
Residential real estate	$	14,245	15	%	$	19,847	13	%	$	15,197	12	%	$	17,307	13	%	$	28,319	11	%
Commercial real estate:
Investor CRE	13,111		15	%	23,469		20	%	55,876		23	%	49,362		23	%	42,296		18	%
MultiFamily	18,489		29	%	14,433		25	%	13,491		18	%	9,668		9	%	8,984		7	%
Construction	9,553		1	%	10,192		1	%	22,355		3	%	65,877		10	%	185,222		19	%
Total CRE	41,153		45	%	48,094		46	%	91,722		44	%	124,907		42	%	236,502		44	%
Commercial:
Owner occupied CRE	18,732		19	%	22,340		20	%	20,636		23	%	34,282		23	%	28,248		19	%
C&I	23,382		10	%	19,534		9	%	17,410		8	%	22,669		9	%	30,887		11	%
Total commercial	42,114		29	%	41,874		29	%	38,046		31	%	56,951		32	%	59,135		30	%
Consumer	27,578		11	%	25,602		12	%	13,427		12	%	14,645		13	%	19,198		15	%
Unallocated	12,204		n/a		18,928		n/a		19,066		n/a		33,246		n/a		289		n/a
	$	137,294	100	%	$	154,345	100	%	$	177,458	100	%	$	247,056	100	%	$	343,443	100	%

38

The following table presents a roll-forward of the allowance for credit losses for the years presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011			2010			2009
Allowance for credit losses	(in thousands)
Allowance - loans, beginning balance	$	154,345		$	177,458		$	247,056		$	343,443		$	208,365
Provision	(5,200		)	7,500			28,500			250,591			690,738
Charge-offs:
Residential real estate	(4,167		)	(5,203		)	(18,553		)	(37,347		)	(31,401		)
Commercial real estate
Investor CRE	(10,768		)	(14,840		)	(25,779		)	(26,943		)	(25,947		)
Multifamily	(177		)	(1,138		)	(1,703		)	(18,039		)	(3,510		)
Construction	(777		)	(11,407		)	(45,896		)	(238,596		)	(420,539		)
Total commercial real estate	(11,722		)	(27,385		)	(73,378		)	(283,578		)	(449,996		)
Commercial
Owner occupied CRE	(5,131		)	(14,078		)	(19,177		)	(22,482		)	(24,786		)
C&I	(1,441		)	(2,927		)	(9,192		)	(18,683		)	(45,085		)
Total commercial	(6,572		)	(17,005		)	(28,369		)	(41,165		)	(69,871		)
Consumer	(5,900		)	(9,144		)	(8,869		)	(14,765		)	(15,396		)
Total charge-offs	(28,361		)	(58,737		)	(129,169		)	(376,855		)	(566,664		)
Recoveries
Residential real estate	1,489			1,075			1,419			2,131			306
Commercial real estate
Investor CRE	2,218			4,338			2,629			259			0
Multifamily	116			611			1,853			189			5
Construction	7,086			11,992			16,583			20,213			6,803
Total commercial real estate	9,420			16,941			21,065			20,661			6,808
Commercial
Owner occupied CRE	1,188			3,926			1,523			1,052			348
C&I	3,010			4,718			5,233			4,164			1,875
Total commercial	4,198			8,644			6,756			5,216			2,223
Consumer	1,403			1,464			1,831			1,869			1,667
Total recoveries	16,510			28,124			31,071			29,877			11,004
Net charge-offs	(11,851		)	(30,613		)	(98,098		)	(346,978		)	(555,660		)
Allowance - loans, ending balance	137,294			154,345			177,458			247,056			343,443
Allowance - unfunded commitments, beginning balance	8,002			10,029			10,707			11,967			21,334
Provision	5,200			2,500			1,500			(360		)	(9,367		)
Charge-offs	(2,081		)	(4,527		)	(2,178		)	(900		)	0
Allowance - unfunded commitments, ending balance	11,121			8,002			10,029			10,707			11,967
Total credit allowance	$	148,415		$	162,347		$	187,487		$	257,763		$	355,410
Allowance on specific impaired loans	$	6,917		$	8,463		$	16,305		$	37,654		$	27,129
Net charge-offs to average loans	0.16		%	0.48		%	1.64		%	4.86		%	6.17		%
Loan loss allowance to loans	1.84		%	2.47		%	3.22		%	4.39		%	4.46		%

39

See Note 4 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for further details by loan segment for changes in the allowance for credit losses. The decline in the allowance for credit losses over the periods presented reflects a reduction in the level of classified loans.

The following table sets forth the contractual principal repayments of Sterling's loan portfolio, as well as sensitivities of these loans to changes in interest rates. Demand loans, loans having no stated repayment schedule and no stated maturity, and overdrafts are reported as due in one year or less. Loan balances do not include undisbursed loan proceeds, deferred loan origination costs and fees, or allowances for credit losses. This table reflects contractual terms and may not reflect the actual amount or timing of payments received in future periods.

					Principal Payments Contractually Due in Fiscal Years
	Balance Outstanding at December 31, 2013				2014				2015-2018				Thereafter
	fixed		variable		fixed		variable		fixed		variable		fixed		variable
	(in thousands)
Residential real estate	$	498,536	$	621,038	$	32,188	$	18,359	$	83,827	$	69,545	$	382,521	$	533,134
Commercial real estate:
Investor CRE	349,923		764,845		68,688		106,761		227,985		312,155		53,250		345,929
Multifamily	63,107		2,093,327		5,136		46,753		23,793		193,178		34,178		1,853,396
Construction (1)	17,580		54,113		6,470		19,915		1,833		5,643		9,277		28,555
Total commercial real estate	430,610		2,912,285		80,294		173,429		253,611		510,976		96,705		2,227,880
Commercial:
Owner occupied CRE	400,323		1,030,817		55,340		129,154		203,741		304,099		141,242		597,564
C&I	276,265		465,877		92,209		270,960		146,362		145,485		37,694		49,432
Total commercial	676,588		1,496,694		147,549		400,114		350,103		449,584		178,936		646,996
Consumer	402,561		419,507		61,554		40,309		202,234		56,767		138,773		322,431
Total	$	2,008,295	$	5,449,524	$	321,585	$	632,211	$	889,775	$	1,086,872	$	796,935	$	3,730,441

(1) Construction loans with greater than five year maturities represent certain government-guaranteed loans that are expected to convert to long-term financing upon completion of construction.

40

The following table sets forth Sterling's loan originations and purchases for the periods indicated, and are amounts in addition to loans acquired in acquisition transactions:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011		2010		2009
Loan originations:	(in thousands)
Residential real estate:
For sale	$	2,379,797	$	2,901,407	$	2,009,654	$	2,454,874	$	2,284,240
Permanent	470,131		228,048		89,240		107,679		763,140
Total residential real estate	2,849,928		3,129,455		2,098,894		2,562,553		3,047,380
CRE:
Investor CRE	68,716		63,986		42,551		98,172		176,256
Multifamily	855,803		813,495		720,192		29,369		82,696
Construction	43,181		8,931		19,557		20,084		64,660
Total CRE	967,700		886,412		782,300		147,625		323,612
Commercial:
Owner occupied CRE	215,340		158,411		158,347		50,428		131,919
C&I	354,544		296,575		217,723		80,548		186,625
Total commercial	569,884		454,986		376,070		130,976		318,544
Consumer	385,394		255,459		138,203		87,817		291,602
Total loan originations	4,772,906		4,726,312		3,395,467		2,928,971		3,981,138
Total portfolio loan originations (excludes residential real estate for sale)	2,393,109		1,824,905		1,385,813		474,097		1,696,898
Loan purchases:
Residential real estate	228		76,736		13,417		0		0
CRE:
Investor CRE	3,016		2,345		48,584		0		0
Multifamily	564		932		2,896		82,702		0
Total CRE	3,580		3,277		51,480		82,702		0
Commercial:
Owner occupied CRE	1,071		5,038		74,716		0		0
C&I	45,303		0		0		0		0
Total commercial	46,374		5,038		74,716		0		0
Consumer	26,209		71,620		0		0		0
Total loan purchases	76,391		156,671		139,613		82,702		0
Total loan originations and purchases	$	4,849,297	$	4,882,983	$	3,535,080	$	3,011,673	$	3,981,138

Originations of residential for sale loans during 2012 were positively influenced by an elevated level of refinancing activity due to historically low mortgage rates. Following a significant increase in mortgage rates during 2013, mortgage refinance originations declined, and comprised 48% of total residential for sale loan originations for 2013, as compared with 61% of total residential for sale originations for 2012. Loan purchases during 2013 included $45.3 million of C&I syndicated loans, and participations of $20.5 million of auto loans and $5.2 million of student loans.

41

The following table presents classified assets, which are comprised of loans risk rated as substandard, doubtful or loss, and OREO.

	December 31,
	2013			2012			2011			2010			2009
	(in thousands)
Residential real estate	$	21,152		$	26,915		$	30,918		$	104,467		$	128,561
CRE:
Investor CRE	32,428			70,044			75,304			173,444			154,859
Multifamily	1,278			8,964			15,995			43,331			44,258
Construction	2,243			17,800			98,773			375,647			949,877
Total CRE	35,949			96,808			190,072			592,422			1,148,994
Commercial:
Owner occupied CRE	40,471			58,119			94,660			149,567			202,804
C&I	33,285			6,006			21,029			72,558			66,717
Total commercial	73,756			64,125			115,689			222,125			269,521
Consumer	5,985			8,942			7,157			18,868			11,996
Total classified loans	136,842			196,790			343,836			937,882			1,559,072
OREO	8,047			25,042			81,910			161,653			83,272
Total classified assets	$	144,889		$	221,832		$	425,746		$	1,099,535		$	1,642,344
Classified loans/ total loans	1.83		%	3.15		%	6.23		%	16.66		%	20.26		%
Classified assets/ total assets	1.40		%	2.40		%	4.63		%	11.58		%	15.10		%

Classified assets declined $76.9 million, or 35% during the year ended December 31, 2013, despite the addition of $17.2 million of classified assets during this period as a result of the Borrego transaction. Nonperforming assets include nonperforming loans and OREO, are summarized in the following table as of the dates indicated:

	December 31,
	2013			2012			2011			2010			2009
	(in thousands)
Past due 90 days or more and accruing	$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0		$	0
Nonaccrual loans	69,302			121,113			210,221			546,133			824,652
Restructured loans	47,774			64,216			76,939			108,504			71,279
Total nonperforming loans	117,076			185,329			287,160			654,637			895,931
OREO	8,047			25,042			81,910			161,653			83,272
Total nonperforming assets	125,123			210,371			369,070			816,290			979,203
Specific reserve - loans	(6,917		)	(8,463		)	(16,305		)	(37,654		)	(27,129		)
Net nonperforming assets	$	118,206		$	201,908		$	352,765		$	778,636		$	952,074
Nonperforming assets to total assets	1.21		%	2.28		%	4.01		%	8.60		%	9.00		%
Nonperforming loans to loans	1.57		%	2.96		%	5.20		%	11.64		%	11.65		%
Loan loss allowance to nonperforming loans	117		%	83		%	62		%	38		%	38		%

Nonperforming assets declined 41% during 2013, as a result of paydowns and sales, and other asset resolution efforts outpacing new problem loans. The Borrego transaction added $18.3 million of nonperforming assets, a substantial portion of which are guaranteed by government agencies.

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The following table presents a roll-forward of nonperforming loans for the periods indicated:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011			2010			2009
Nonperforming loans:	(in thousands)
Beginning Balance	$	185,329		$	287,160		$	654,637		$	895,931		$	530,790
Additions	51,609			146,941			211,710			825,047			1,322,100
Charge-offs	(11,851		)	(30,613		)	(98,098		)	(346,978		)	(555,660		)
Paydowns and sales	(87,829		)	(159,827		)	(205,456		)	(352,655		)	(244,850		)
Acquired	14,251			0			0			0			0
Foreclosures	(19,960		)	(33,499		)	(177,881		)	(265,115		)	(156,449		)
Upgrade to accrual	(14,473		)	(24,833		)	(97,752		)	(101,593		)	0
Ending Balance	$	117,076		$	185,329		$	287,160		$	654,637		$	895,931

The following table presents a roll-forward of OREO for the periods indicated:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013					2012					2011					2010					2009
	Amount			Number of Properties		Amount			Number of Properties		Amount			Number of Properties		Amount			Number of Properties		Amount			Number of Properties
OREO:	(Dollars in thousands)
Beginning Balance	$	25,042		46		$	81,910		143		$	161,653		439		$	83,272		203		$	62,320		120
Additions	19,960			70		33,499			117		177,881			463		265,115			821		156,449			388
Valuation adjustments	(4,682		)			(5,812		)			(22,209		)			(36,759		)			(31,021		)
Sales	(37,626		)	(107	)	(85,837		)	(214	)	(241,028		)	(759	)	(155,409		)	(585	)	(106,130		)	(305	)
Acquired	4,803			14		0			0		0			0		0			0		0			0
Other changes	550					1,282					5,613					5,434					1,654
Ending Balance	$	8,047		23		$	25,042		46		$	81,910		143		$	161,653		439		$	83,272		203

Deposits. The following table sets forth the composition of Sterling's deposits at the dates indicated:

	December 31,
	2013				2012				2011
	Amount		%		Amount		%		Amount		%
	(in thousands)
Noninterest bearing transaction	$	1,881,360	27	%	$	1,702,740	26	%	$	1,211,628	19	%
Interest bearing transaction	791,943		11	%	732,038		11	%	521,037		8	%
Savings and MMDA	2,700,241		38	%	2,262,369		36	%	2,092,283		32	%
Time deposits	1,701,446		24	%	1,738,970		27	%	2,660,870		41	%
Total deposits	$	7,074,990	100	%	$	6,436,117	100	%	$	6,485,818	100	%

The increase in total deposits during 2013 included $118.2 million of deposits from the Borrego acquisition, $168.2 million of deposits from the Boston Private transaction, and $189.6 million of deposits from the CNB acquisition, which contributed to the 19% increase in savings and MMDA balances.

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The following table shows the amounts and remaining maturities of time deposits that had balances of $100,000 or more as of period end:

	December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)
Three months or less	$	142,676
After three months through six months	96,075
After six months through twelve months	251,201
After twelve months	533,341
	$	1,023,293

Borrowings. The aggregate amount of other borrowings outstanding comprised of FHLB advances, repurchase agreements and junior subordinated debentures, was $1.92 billion as of December 31, 2013 compared with $1.44 billion at December 31, 2012, respectively. The increase from 2012 reflected additional FHLB advances, which were used to fund acquisitions and loan growth, and to offset deposit outflow associated with branch divestitures and runoff of CDs.

The following table presents the ending balances of Sterling's borrowings as of the dates indicated:

	December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(in thousands)
FHLB advances:
Short-term	$	365,000	$	269,053	$	300,000
Long-term	781,103		336,277		105,609
Securities sold under repurchase agreements and funds purchased:
Short-term	31,679		86,867		205,763
Long-term	500,000		500,000		850,000
Junior subordinated debentures	245,299		245,294		245,290
Total borrowings	$	1,923,081	$	1,437,491	$	1,706,662

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Certain other information related to the short-term portion of Sterling's borrowings as of and for the periods indicated is as follows:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Maximum amount outstanding at any month-end during the period:
Short-term advances	$	566,666		$	269,053		$	301,325
Short-term repurchase agreements and funds purchased	87,363			265,595			205,763
Average amount outstanding during the period:
Short-term advances	$	309,035		$	161,231		$	229,512
Short-term repurchase agreements and funds purchased	35,536			209,521			90,008
Average rate during the period:
Short-term advances	0.37		%	1.33		%	0.29		%
Short-term repurchase agreements and funds purchased	0.28		%	2.72		%	1.85		%
Average rate as of the end of the period:
Short-term advances	0.28		%	0.96		%	0.28		%
Short-term repurchase agreements and funds purchased	0.05		%	1.18		%	3.08		%

Asset and Liability Management

The principal objective of Sterling's asset and liability management activities is to provide optimum levels of net interest income ("NII") and stable sources of funding while maintaining acceptable levels of interest-rate risk and liquidity risk. The Asset/Liability Committee ("ALCO") measures interest rate risk exposure primarily through interest rate shock simulations for both net interest income and the economic value of equity ("EVE"). Interest rate risk arises from mismatches in assets and liabilities, with mismatches due to differences in the timing of rate repricing for the various instruments, the amount or volume of the underlying assets and liabilities that are repricing, and by how much or the level at which the rate is repricing. The specific characteristics of the underlying assets and liabilities, including any embedded optionality, such as a prepayment option on a loan, influence these differences.

The net interest income interest rate shock simulation measures the effect of changes in interest rates on net interest income over 12 months. This simulation consists of measuring the change in net interest income over the next 12 months from the base case scenario, from which rates are shocked, in a parallel fashion, up and down. The base case uses the assumption of the existing balance sheet and existing interest rates. The simulation requires numerous assumptions, including relative levels of market interest rates, instantaneous and parallel shifts in the yield curve, loan prepayments and reactions of depositors to changes in interest rates, and should not be relied upon as being indicative of actual or future results. The analysis does not contemplate actions Sterling may undertake in response to changes in interest rates and market conditions. The results of this simulation are included in the following table for the periods presented:

	December 31, 2013		December 31, 2012
Change in Interest Rate in Basis Points (Rate Shock)	% Change in NII		% Change in NII
+300	(1.4	)	2.0
+200	(0.2	)	1.8
+100	0.0		1.0
Static	0.0		0.0
-100	*		*

 * Results are not meaningful in a low interest rate environment.

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EVE simulation analysis measures risk in the balance sheet that might not be taken into account in the net interest income simulation. Whereas net interest income simulation highlights exposure over a relatively short time period of 12 months, EVE simulation analysis incorporates all cash flows over the estimated remaining life of all balance sheet positions. The EVE simulation analysis of the balance sheet, at a point in time, is defined as the discounted present value of asset cash flows minus the discounted value of liability cash flows. The difference between the present value of the asset and liability represents the EVE. As with net interest income, the base case simulation uses current market rates, from which rates are shocked up and down in a parallel fashion. As with the net interest income simulation model, EVE simulation analysis is based on key assumptions about the timing and variability of balance sheet cash flows. However, because the simulation represents much longer time periods, inaccuracy of assumptions may increase the variability of outcomes within the simulation. It also does not take into account actions management may undertake in response to anticipated changes in interest rates. The results of this simulation are included in the following table for the periods presented:

	December 31, 2013	December 31, 2012
Change in Interest Rate in Basis Points (Rate Shock)	% Change in EVE	% Change in EVE
+300	6.1	29.9
+200	4.2	23.8
+100	1.9	13.7
Static	0.0	0.0
-100	*	*

* Results are not meaningful in a low interest rate environment.

The fluctuations in EVE sensitivity and net interest income interest rate shock at December 31, 2012, as compared with at December 31, 2013, are primarily the result of an increase in shorter duration borrowings to fund longer duration assets that were added through organic growth and acquisitions over 2013.

Sterling has customer-related interest rate swap derivatives outstanding, with a total notional amount of $43.1 million of related swaps outstanding as of December 31, 2013. For a description, see Note 18 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling has not entered into any other derivative transactions as part of managing its interest rate risk. However, Sterling continues to consider derivatives, including interest rate swaps, caps and floors as viable alternatives in the asset and liability management process.

Capital and Liquidity Management

Sterling's primary sources of funds are: retail, public and brokered deposits; the collection of principal and interest from loans and MBS; the sale of loans into the secondary market in connection with Sterling's mortgage banking and other loan sale activities; borrowings from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve; and borrowings from commercial banks (including repurchase agreements). Public deposits from states, municipalities, and other public entities generally require collateralization for some or all of the deposit amounts, depending on state and local requirements. Repurchase agreements allow Sterling to sell investments (generally U.S. agency securities and MBS) under an agreement to buy them back at a specified price at a later date. Repurchase agreements are considered collateralized obligations and may expose Sterling to certain risks not associated with other borrowings, including interest rate risk and the possibility that additional collateral may have to be provided if the market value of the pledged collateral declines. Sterling Bank's credit line with FHLB of Seattle provides for borrowings up to a percentage of its total assets, subject to collateralization requirements, with borrowing terms ranging from overnight to term advances. Sterling Bank actively manages its liquidity to maintain an adequate margin over the level necessary to support the funding of loans and deposit withdrawals. Liquidity may vary, depending on economic conditions, deposit fluctuations, loan funding needs and regulatory requirements.

The total value of Sterling's consolidated cash and equivalents and securities was $1.98 billion at December 31, 2013, compared with $1.84 billion at December 31, 2012. Total available liquidity as of December 31, 2013 was $2.79 billion, compared to $2.93 billion as of December 31, 2012. Total available liquidity as of December 31, 2013 included unpledged portions of cash and equivalents and securities of $473.4 million, available borrowing capacity from the FHLB, the Federal Reserve and correspondent banks of $2.17 billion, as well as loans held for sale of $139.0 million.

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Sterling, as a parent company-only, had cash of approximately $29.9 million and $24.4 million at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The parent company's significant cash flows primarily relate to capital investments in and capital distributions from Sterling Bank, capital distributions to shareholders, and interest payments on junior subordinated debentures. Sterling's ability to pay dividends is generally limited by its earnings, financial condition, capital, liquidity and regulatory requirements. Sterling relies on Sterling Bank as its primary source of cash flow. Various federal and state statutory provisions and regulations limit the amount of dividends, if any, Sterling Bank may pay to Sterling without regulatory approval.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The following table represents Sterling's on-and-off-balance sheet aggregate contractual obligations to make future payments as of December 31, 2013:

	Payments Due by Period
	Total		Less than 1 year		1 to 3 years		Over 3 to 5 years		More than 5 years		Indeterminate maturity
	(in thousands)
Deposits (1)	$	7,074,990	$	875,929	$	701,916	$	80,544	$	43,057	$	5,373,544
Borrowings (1)	1,923,081		396,679		650,692		623,495		252,215		0
Operating leases	81,407		15,970		24,198		15,759		25,480		0
Purchase obligations (2)	24,173		9,686		14,482		5		0		0
Other long-term liabilities (3)	27,984		1,577		3,232		3,439		19,736		0
Total	$	9,131,635	$	1,299,841	$	1,394,520	$	723,242	$	340,488	$	5,373,544

⁽¹⁾ Excludes interest payments. Deposits with indeterminate maturities are composed of transaction, savings and MMDA accounts.

⁽²⁾ Excludes recurring accounts payable amounts due in the first quarter of 2014.

⁽³⁾ Includes amounts associated with retirement and benefit plans and other compensation arrangements. The amounts represent the total future potential payouts assuming all current participants become fully vested in their respective plans or arrangements.

For discussion of commitments to extend credit, see Note 20 of "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements."

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Critical Accounting Policies

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

Allowance for Credit Losses. The allowance for credit losses is comprised of the allowance for loan losses and the reserve for unfunded credit commitments. In general, determining the amount of the allowance requires significant judgment and the use of estimates by management. Sterling maintains an allowance for loan losses to absorb probable losses in the loan portfolio based on a quarterly analysis of the portfolio and inherent losses. This analysis is designed to determine an appropriate level and allocation of the allowance for losses among loan classes by considering factors affecting loan losses, including specific and confirmed losses, levels and trends in classified and nonperforming loans, historical loan loss experience, loan migration analysis, current national and local economic conditions, volume, growth and composition of the portfolio, regulatory guidance and other relevant factors. The reserve for unfunded credit commitments includes loss coverage for loan repurchases arising primarily from mortgage banking activities. Management monitors the loan portfolio to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance. The allowance can increase or decrease each quarter based upon the results of management's analysis.

The loan portfolio is grouped into several segments for homogeneous loans based on characteristics such as loan type, borrower and collateral. Loan migration to loss data is used to determine the annual probability of default. The annual probability of default is adjusted for the estimated loss emergence period and may be further adjusted based on the assessment of qualitative factors. The qualitative factors are reviewed quarterly to determine a rating for each category of low, medium, or high, that is then quantified into the calculation of the probability of default. The estimated loss emergence period reflects an estimate of the time frame during which losses may be realized. Sterling establishes the estimated loss rate on loans using the historical life-to-date losses net of recoveries on loans remaining in the portfolio, the last twelve months of losses on OREO (including losses on foreclosure, write-downs, and losses on sale) and losses on discounted note sales to estimate the amount that would be lost if a default were to occur, which is termed the "loss given default." The probability of default, as adjusted by the loss emergence period and qualitative factors, is multiplied by the loss given default to calculate the estimated loss rates for each loan class. Once the estimated loss rates for each loan class are calculated, the results are validated, by comparing this calculated estimated loss for each loan class to the actual one-year and three-year (annualized) losses, net of recoveries. In addition, the calculated loss rate is also compared to the prior periods, and the overall trend in loss rates from prior periods. If the calculated loss rates differ significantly from the one-year and three-year actual loss rates and/or is inconsistent with the historical loss rate trends, Sterling performs further analyses to identify and evaluate the possible causes of the differences. This includes evaluating the characteristics of the historical loss and recovery data used in calculating the loss rate to determine whether such activity is an appropriate reflection, in management's judgment, of the current inherent losses in the various loan classes. This analysis takes into consideration the impact of the qualitative factors that increase the probability of default used to calculate loss rates in assessing whether there is additional qualitative risk. Sterling evaluates the results of the model, and the evaluation process based on their judgment, experience, and specific knowledge of the loan portfolio, and determines the most appropriate estimated loss rate for each loan category based on their evaluation of quantitative data and qualitative factors described above.

Sterling may also maintain an unallocated allowance to provide for other credit losses that may exist in the loan portfolio that are not taken into consideration in establishing estimated loss rates. The unallocated amount may generally be maintained at higher levels during times of economic uncertainty. The unallocated amount is reviewed at least quarterly based on credit and economic trends.

Individual loan reviews are based upon specific quantitative and qualitative criteria, including the size of the loan, loan quality ratings, value of collateral, repayment ability of borrowers and guarantors, as applicable, and historical experience factors. The historical experience factors utilized and allowances for homogeneous loans (such as residential mortgage loans and consumer loans) are collectively evaluated based upon historical loss experience, loan migration analysis, trends in losses and delinquencies, growth of loans in particular markets, and known changes in economic conditions in each particular lending market.

A loan is considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable Sterling will be unable to collect the scheduled payments of principal and interest when due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. Factors considered by management in determining impairment include payment status, collateral value and the probability of collecting scheduled principal and interest payments when due. Loans that experience insignificant payment delays and payment shortfalls generally are not classified as impaired. Management determines the significance of payment delays and payment shortfalls on

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a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration all of the circumstances surrounding the loan and the borrower, including the length of delay, the reasons for the delay, the borrower's prior payment record, the ability and willingness of guarantors to make payments, and the amount of the shortfall in relation to the principal and interest owed. Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis by either the present value of estimated future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, the loan's obtainable market price or the fair value of collateral if the loan is collateral-dependent.

The fair value of the underlying collateral for real estate loans, which may or may not be collateral-dependent, is determined by using appraisals from qualified external sources. For commercial properties and residential development loans, the external appraisals are reviewed by qualified internal appraisal staff to ensure compliance with appropriate standards and technical accuracy. Appraisals are updated according to regulatory provisions for extensions or restructurings of commercial or residential real estate construction and permanent loans that have not performed within the terms of the original loan. Updated appraisals are also ordered for loans that have not been restructured, but that have stale valuation information, generally defined in the current market as information older than one year, and deteriorating credit quality that warrants classification as substandard.

The timing of obtaining appraisals may vary, depending on the nature and complexity of the property being evaluated and the general breadth of appraisal activity in the marketplace, but generally it is within 30 to 90 days of recognition of substandard status, following determination of collateral dependency, or in connection with a loan's maturity or a negotiation that may result in the restructuring or extension of a real estate secured loan. Delays in timing may occur to comply with actions such as a bankruptcy filing or provisions of a government guarantee.

Estimates of fair value may be used for substandard collateral-dependent loans at quarter end if external appraisals are not expected to be completed in time for determining quarter end results or to update values between appraisal dates to reflect recent sales activity of comparable inventory or pending property sales of the subject collateral. During periods of declining real estate values, Sterling may record a specific reserve for impaired loans for which an updated valuation analysis has not been completed within the last quarter. Estimates of value are not used to raise a value; however, estimates may be used to recognize deterioration of market values in quarters between appraisal updates. The judgment with respect to recognition of any provision or related charge-off for a confirmed loss also takes into consideration whether the loan is collateral-dependent or whether it is supported by sources of repayment or cash flow beyond the collateral that is being valued. For loans that are deemed to be collateral-dependent, the amount of charge-offs is determined in relation to the collateral's appraised value. For loans that are not deemed to be collateral-dependent, the amount of charge-offs may differ from the collateral's appraised value because there is additional support for the loan, such as cash flow from other sources.

The reserve for unfunded credit commitments includes loss exposure from Sterling's mortgage banking operations. Loans sold into the secondary market are sold with limited recourse to Sterling, meaning that Sterling may be obligated to repurchase any loans that are not underwritten in accordance with agency guidelines or have borrower misrepresentations.

While management uses available information to provide for loan losses, the ultimate collectability of a substantial portion of the loan portfolio and the need for future additions to the allowance will be influenced by changes in economic conditions and other relevant factors. There can be no assurance that the allowance for credit losses will be adequate to cover all losses, but management believes the allowance for credit losses was appropriate at December 31, 2013.

Income Taxes. Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Under this method, a deferred tax asset or liability is determined based on the enacted tax rates that will be in effect when the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and tax basis of existing assets and liabilities are expected to be reported in Sterling's income tax returns. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Sterling estimates income taxes payable based on the amount it expects to owe various taxing authorities. Accrued income taxes represent the net estimated amount due to, or to be received from, taxing authorities. In estimating accrued income taxes, Sterling assesses the relative merits and risks of the appropriate tax treatment of transactions, taking into account the applicable statutory, judicial and regulatory guidance in the context of Sterling's tax position. Sterling also considers recent audits and examinations, as well as its historical experience in making such estimates. Although Sterling uses available information to record income taxes, underlying estimates and assumptions can change over time as a result of unanticipated events or circumstances. Penalties and interest associated with any potential estimate variances would be included in income tax expense in the consolidated financial statements.

A deferred tax asset valuation allowance was established during 2009 due to the three year cumulative loss and uncertainty at that time regarding Sterling's ability to generate future taxable income. Reversal of substantially all of the deferred tax asset

49

valuation allowance occurred during 2012. Prior to reversing the allowance, management analyzed both positive and negative evidence that could affect the realization of the deferred tax asset. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling determined that it continues to be more likely than not that substantially all of the net deferred tax asset would be realized.

Income Recognition. Sterling recognizes interest income in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In the event management believes collection of all or a portion of contractual interest on a loan has become doubtful, which generally occurs when the loan is 90 days past due or when Sterling restructures a troubled loan, Sterling discontinues the accrual of interest, and any previously accrued interest recognized in income deemed uncollectible is reversed. Interest received on nonperforming loans is included in income only if principal recovery is reasonably assured. A nonperforming loan is restored to accrual status when it is brought current, has performed according to contractual terms for a reasonable period of time, generally six months, and the collectability of the total contractual principal and interest is no longer in doubt.

Investments and MBS. Assets in the investment and MBS portfolios are initially recorded at cost, which includes any premiums and discounts. Sterling amortizes premiums and discounts as an adjustment to interest income over the estimated life of the security. The cost of investment securities sold, and any resulting gain or loss, is based on the specific identification method. Sterling's MBS are primarily in agency securities, with limited investments in nonagency obligations. The majority of the municipal bonds that Sterling holds are general obligation bonds, spread throughout Sterling's footprint.

The loans underlying Sterling's MBS are subject to the prepayment of principal. The rate at which prepayments are expected to occur in future periods impacts the amount of premium to be amortized in the current period. If prepayments in a future period are higher or lower than expected, then Sterling will need to amortize a larger or smaller amount of the premium to interest income in that future period.

Management determines the appropriate classification of investment securities at the time of purchase. Held-to-maturity securities are those securities that Sterling has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity and are recorded at amortized cost. Available-for-sale securities are those securities that would be available to be sold in the future in response to Sterling's liquidity needs, changes in market interest rates, and asset-liability management strategies, among other factors. Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in shareholders' equity as a separate component of other comprehensive income.

Management evaluates investment securities for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a quarterly basis. If the fair value of investment securities falls below their amortized cost and the decline is deemed to be other-than-temporary, the securities will be written down to current market value, resulting in a loss. There were no investment securities that management identified as other-than-temporarily impaired ("OTTI") as of December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling expects the return of all principal and interest on all securities within its investment and MBS portfolio pursuant to the contractual terms, has the ability and intent to hold these investments, has no intent to sell securities that are deemed to have a market value impairment, and believes it is unlikely that it would be required to sell these investments before maturity or a recovery in market price occurs. Realized losses could occur in future periods due to a change in management's intent to hold the investments to recovery, a change in management's assessment of credit risk, or a change in regulatory or accounting requirements.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments. Sterling's available-for-sale securities portfolio totaled $1.43 billion and $1.51 billion as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and were the majority of Sterling's financial instruments that are carried at fair value. Month end security price valuations are provided by a third party pricing service. These valuations are based on market data using pricing models that vary by asset class and incorporate available current trade, bid and other market information, and for structured securities, cash flow and loan performance data. The pricing processes utilize benchmark curves, benchmarking of similar securities, sector groupings, and matrix pricing. Option adjusted spread models are also used to assess the impact of changes in interest rates and to develop prepayment scenarios. All models and processes used take into account market convention. Additional validation of provided pricing is performed by Sterling's Investment Department using non-binding broker quotes, current trade executions provided by Bloomberg, and additional modeling of cash flow and prepayment analytics performed with Bloomberg analytics. Sterling also carries loans held for sale at fair value in order to match changes in the value of the loans with the value of the economic hedges on the loans without applying complex hedge accounting. The value of loans held for sale carried at fair value is determined based upon an analysis of investor quoted pricing inputs.

Mortgage Servicing Rights. For "servicing-retained" loan sales, Sterling records an asset (mortgage servicing rights) related to the estimated future net revenue stream for servicing the sold loans. The value of mortgage servicing rights is estimated using a discounted cash flow methodology incorporating prepayment speeds, market interest rates, servicing costs, contractual interest

50

rates on the loans being serviced, and the amount of other fee income generated over the servicing contract. Mortgage servicing rights are amortized in proportion to, and over the estimated period of the servicing revenues. To the extent the carrying value of mortgage servicing rights exceeds the subsequent fair value estimates, a valuation allowance is recognized. Subsequent recoveries in value are recognized up to the original carrying value of the mortgage servicing rights only to the extent of cumulative fair value charges.

Effects of Inflation and Changing Prices

A financial institution has an asset and liability structure that is interest-rate sensitive. As a holder of monetary assets and liabilities, an institution's performance may be significantly influenced by changes in interest rates. Although changes in the prices of goods and services do not necessarily move in the same direction as interest rates, increases in inflation generally have resulted in increased interest rates, which may have an adverse effect on Sterling's business.

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Item 7A.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

For a discussion of Sterling's market risks, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis - Asset and Liability Management."

Item 8.Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

The required information is contained immediately following Part IV of this Form 10-K.

Item 9.Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants and Financial Disclosure

There were no disagreements with Sterling's independent accountants on accounting and financial disclosures.

Item 9A.Controls and Procedures

Sterling's management, with the participation of Sterling's principal executive officer and principal financial officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of Sterling's disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on such evaluation, Sterling's principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that, as of the end of such period, Sterling's disclosure controls and procedures are effective in recording, processing, summarizing and reporting, on a timely basis, information required to be disclosed by Sterling in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act.

There were no changes in Sterling's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the fiscal quarter to which this report relates that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, Sterling's internal control over financial reporting.

MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Sterling's management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Under the supervision and with the participation of Sterling's management, Sterling conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting based on the framework described in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the "COSO Criteria"). Based on management's evaluation under the COSO Criteria, Sterling's management has concluded that Sterling's internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2013.

The effectiveness of Sterling's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013 has been audited by KPMG LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the financial statements included in Sterling's annual report on Form 10-K, as stated in their report which is included herein.

52

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors and Shareholders

Sterling Financial Corporation:

We have audited Sterling Financial Corporation and subsidiaries' (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Sterling Financial Corporation's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying management's report on internal control over financial reporting (Item 9A). Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Sterling Financial Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2013, and our report dated February 26, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Seattle, Washington

February 26, 2014

53

Item 9B.Other Information

Disclosure pursuant to Section 13(r) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Pursuant to Section 13(r) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, we, Sterling, may be required to disclose in our annual or quarterly reports to the Securities and Exchange Commission, whether we or any of our "affiliates" knowingly engaged in certain activities, transactions or dealings relating to Iran or with certain individuals or entities targeted by U.S. economic sanctions. Disclosure is generally required even where the activities, transactions or dealings were conducted in compliance with applicable law. Because the Securities and Exchange Commission defines the term "affiliate" broadly, it includes any entity under common "control" with us (and the term "control" is also construed broadly by the Securities and Exchange Commission).

The description of the activities below has been provided to Sterling by Warburg Pincus LLC ("WP"), affiliates of which: (i) beneficially own more than 10% of our outstanding common stock and/or are members of our board of directors; and (ii) beneficially own more than 10% of the equity interests of, and have the right to designate members of the board of directors of, Endurance International Group ("EIG") and Santander Asset Management Investment Holdings Limited, ("SAMIH"). EIG and SAMIH may therefore be deemed to be under common "control" with Sterling; however, this statement is not meant to be an admission that common control exists.

As to EIG:

The disclosure below relates solely to activities conducted by EIG and its affiliates. The disclosure does not relate to any activities conducted by Sterling or by WP and does not involve Sterling’s or WP’s management. Neither Sterling nor WP has had any involvement in or control over the disclosed activities of EIG, and neither Sterling nor WP has independently verified or participated in the preparation of the disclosure. Neither Sterling nor WP is representing as to the accuracy or completeness of the disclosure nor do we or WP undertake any obligation to correct or update it.

Sterling understands that EIG’s affiliates intend to disclose in their next annual or quarterly Securities and Exchange Commission report that:

"Our business activities are subject to various restrictions under U.S. export controls and trade and economic sanctions laws, including the U.S. Commerce Department’s Export Administration Regulations and economic and trade sanctions regulations maintained by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC. If we fail to comply with these laws and regulations, we could be subject to civil or criminal penalties and reputational harm. In addition, if our third-party resellers fail to comply with these laws and regulations in their dealings, we could face potential liability or penalties for violations. Furthermore, U.S. export control laws and economic sanctions laws prohibit certain transactions with U.S. embargoed or sanctioned countries, governments, persons and entities.

Although we take precautions to prevent transactions with U.S. sanctions targets, we have in the past identified limited instances of non-compliance with these rules and believe we have taken appropriate corrective actions in such instances.  For example, on May 1, 2013, during a routine compliance scan of our new and existing subscriber accounts, we discovered a new subscriber account that was created on April 6, 2013 with information matching ORT France, identified by OFAC as a Specially Designated National, or SDN, under the Global Terrorism Sanctions Regulations, 31 C.F.R. Part 594.  We had charged the subscriber $114.10 for web hosting and domain name registration services at the time the account was opened and without knowledge of any SDN issue.  Upon discovery of the potential SDN match, we promptly suspended the subscriber account, deactivated the website, locked the domain name to prevent it from being transferred and ceased providing services to the subscriber.  We also promptly reported the potential SDN match to OFAC.  To date, we have not received any correspondence from OFAC regarding the matter.

Although we have implemented compliance measures that are designed to prevent transactions with U.S. sanction targets, there is risk that in the future we or our resellers could provide our solutions or services to such targets despite such compliance measures.  This could result in negative consequences to us, including government investigations, penalties and reputational harm.

Changes in our solutions or changes in export and import regulations may create delays in the introduction and sale of our solutions in international markets, prevent our subscribers with international operations from deploying our solutions or, in some cases, prevent the export or import of our solutions to certain countries, governments or persons altogether. Any change in export or import regulations, shift in the enforcement or scope of existing regulations, or change in the countries, governments, persons or technologies targeted by such regulations, could result in decreased use of our solutions or decreased ability to export or sell our solutions to existing or potential subscribers with international operations. Any decreased use of our solutions

54

or limitation on our ability to export or sell our solutions could adversely affect our business, financial condition and operating results."

As to SAMIH:

The disclosure below relates solely to activities conducted by SAMIH and its non-U.S. affiliates. The disclosure does not relate to any activities conducted by Sterling or by WP and does not involve Sterling’s or WP’s management. Neither Sterling nor WP has had any involvement in or control over the disclosed activities of SAMIH, and neither Sterling nor WP has independently verified or participated in the preparation of the disclosure. Neither Sterling nor WP is representing to the accuracy or completeness of the disclosure nor do we or WP undertake any obligation to correct or update it.

Sterling understands that SAMIH’s affiliates intend to disclose in their next annual or quarterly Securities and Exchange Commission report that an Iranian national, resident in the U.K., who is currently designated by the U.S. and the U.K. under the Iran Sanctions regime, holds two investment accounts with Santander Asset Management UK Limited, a subsidiary of SAMIH and part of the Banco Santander group. The accounts have remained frozen throughout 2013. The investment returns are being automatically reinvested, and no disbursements have been made to the customer. Total revenue in connection with the investment accounts in 2013 was £247 and net profits in 2013 were negligible relative to the overall profits of Banco Santander, S.A.

55

PART III

Item 10.Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

In response to this Item, the information set forth in Sterling's Proxy Statement for its 2014annual meeting of shareholders, under the headings "Board of Sterling Financial Corporation," "Executive Officers," and "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" is incorporated herein by reference. In the event that Sterling does not file a Proxy Statement with respect to a 2014 annual meeting of shareholders as a result of consummating the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, Sterling will amend this Annual Report on Form 10-K to include the information required by this item.

Information concerning Sterling's Audit Committee and the Audit Committee's financial expert is set forth under the caption "Information Concerning the Board and Its Committees—Committees of the Board" in Sterling's Proxy Statement and is incorporated herein by reference.In the event that Sterling does not file a Proxy Statement as a result of consummating the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, Sterling will amend this Annual Report on Form 10-K to include the information required by this Item.

Sterling has adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to all Sterling employees and directors, including Sterling's senior financial officers. The Code of Ethics is publicly available on Sterling's website at www.sterlingfinancialcorporation.com/corporategovernance.

Item 11.Executive Compensation

In response to this Item, the information set forth in the Proxy Statement under the headings "Executive Compensation," "Compensation and Governance Committee Report," and "Compensation and Governance Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" is incorporated herein by reference.In the event that Sterling does not file a Proxy Statement as a result of consummating the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, Sterling will amend this Annual Report on Form 10-K to include the information required by this Item.

Item 12.Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

In response to this Item, the information set forth in the Proxy Statement under the headings "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" and "Equity Compensation Plan Information" is incorporated herein by reference. In the event that Sterling does not file a Proxy Statement as a result of consummating the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, Sterling will amend this Annual Report on Form 10-K to include the information required by this Item.

Item 13.Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

In response to this Item, the information set forth in the Proxy Statement under the headings "Interests of Directors, Officers and Others in Certain Transactions" and "Corporate Governance—Affirmative Determinations Regarding Director Independence" is incorporated herein by reference.In the event that Sterling does not file a Proxy Statement as a result of consummating the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, Sterling will amend this Annual Report on Form 10-K to include the information required by this Item.

Item 14.Principal Accounting Fees and Services

In response to this Item, the information set forth in the Proxy Statement under the headings "Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" and "Pre-Approval of Audit and Non-Audit Services" is incorporated herein by reference. In the event that Sterling does not file a Proxy Statement as a result of consummating the transactions contemplated by the merger agreement, Sterling will amend this Annual Report on Form 10-K to include the information required by this Item.

56

PART IV

Item 15.Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

(a) Documents which are filed as a part of this report:

1. Financial Statements: The required financial statements are contained in this Form 10-K immediately following Part IV.

2. Financial Statement Schedules: Financial statement schedules have been omitted as they are not applicable or the information is included in the Consolidated Financial Statements.

3. Exhibits: The exhibits filed as part of this report and the exhibits incorporated herein by reference are listed in the Exhibit Index at page E-1.

(b) See (a)(3) above for all exhibits filed herewith.

(c) All schedules are omitted as the required information is not applicable or the information is presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements or related notes.

57

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.

	STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION
February 26, 2014		/s/ J. Gregory Seibly
		J. Gregory Seibly
		President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

POWER OF ATTORNEY

Each person whose signature appears below appoints J. Gregory Seibly, Patrick J. Rusnak and Andrew J. Schultheis, and each of them acting individually, as such person's true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for such person and in such person's name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign the annual report on Form 10-K of Sterling Financial Corporation and any or all amendments thereto and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and all other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite or necessary to be done, as fully to all intents and purposes as such person might or would do in person, in and about the premises hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or his or their substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

February 26, 2014	/s/ J. Gregory Seibly
	J. Gregory Seibly
	President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ Patrick J. Rusnak
	Patrick J. Rusnak
	Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
February 26, 2014	/s/ Robert G. Butterfield
	Robert G. Butterfield
	Senior Vice President, Controller, and Principal Accounting Officer
February 26, 2014
	Leslie S. Biller
	Chairman of the Board
February 26, 2014	/s/ Howard P. Behar
	Howard P. Behar
	Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ Paula E. Boggs
	Paula E. Boggs
	Director

58

February 26, 2014	/s/ Ellen R.M. Boyer
	Ellen R.M. Boyer
	Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ Joshua D. Bresler
	Joshua D. Bresler
	Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ David A. Coulter
	David A. Coulter
	Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ Robert C. Donegan
	Robert C. Donegan
	Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ C. Webb Edwards
	C. Webb Edwards
	Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ William L. Eisenhart
	William L. Eisenhart
	Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ Robert H. Hartheimer
	Robert H. Hartheimer
	Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ Maria M. Pope
	Maria M. Pope
	Director
February 26, 2014	/s/ Michael F. Reuling
	Michael F. Reuling
	Director

59

Exhibit No.	Exhibit Index
2.1	Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of September 11, 2013, between Sterling Financial Corporation and Umpqua Holdings Corporation. Filed as Exhibit 2.1 to Sterling's Current Report on form 8-K dated September 17, 2013 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.1	Restated Articles of Incorporation of Sterling. Filed as Exhibit 4.1 to Sterling's Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-3 dated May 8, 2009 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.2	Articles of Amendment of Restated Articles of Incorporation of Sterling increasing the authorized shares of common stock. Filed as Exhibit 4.2 to Sterling's Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-3 dated September 21, 2009 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.3	Articles of Amendment to Sterling's Restated Articles of Incorporation designating Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series C. Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 30, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.4	Articles of Amendment to Sterling's Restated Articles of Incorporation eliminating par value of Sterling Common Stock. Filed as Exhibit 3.2 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 30, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.5	Articles of Amendment to Sterling's Restated Articles of Incorporation designating Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series B. Filed as Exhibit 3.3 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 30, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.6	Articles of Amendment to Sterling's Restated Articles of Incorporation designating Fixed Rate Cumulative Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock, Series D. Filed as Exhibit 3.4 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 30, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.7	Articles of Amendment to Sterling's Restated Articles of Incorporation increasing the authorized shares of common stock. Filed as exhibit 3.7 to Sterling's Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 dated November 3, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.8	Articles of Amendment to Sterling's Restated Articles of Incorporation reducing the authorized shares of common stock. Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated November 18, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.9	Articles of Amendment to Sterling's Restated Articles of Incorporation regarding certain transfer restrictions. Filed as Exhibit 3.9 to Sterling's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 dated March 8, 2011 and incorporated by reference herein.
3.10	Amended and Restated Bylaws of Sterling. Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 25, 2011, and incorporated by referenced herein.
4.1	Reference is made to Exhibits 3.1 through 3.10.
4.2	Form of Common Stock Certificate. Filed as Exhibit 4.3 to Sterling's Registration Statement on Form S-3 dated July 20, 2009 and incorporated by reference herein.
4.3	Form of Warrant to Purchase Shares of Sterling Common Stock, dated August 26, 2010 and issued to Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund VI, L.P., Thomas H. Lee Parallel Fund VI, L.P., Thomas H. Lee Parallel (DT) Fund VI, L.P. and THL Sterling Equity Investors, L.P. Filed as Exhibit 4.7 to Sterling's Registration Statement on Form S-1 dated September 24, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
4.4	Form of Warrant to Purchase Shares of Sterling Common Stock, dated August 26, 2010 and issued to Warburg Pincus Private Equity X, L.P. Filed as Exhibit 4.8 to Sterling's Registration Statement on Form S-1 dated September 24, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
4.5	Sterling has outstanding certain long-term debt. None of such debt exceeds ten percent of Sterling's total assets; therefore, copies of the constituent instruments defining the rights of the holders of such debt are not included as exhibits. Copies of instruments with respect to such long-term debt will be furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.
10.1	First Amendment to Second Amended and Restated Investment Agreement by and between Sterling and Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund VI, L.P., Thomas H. Lee Parallel Fund VI, L.P., Thomas H. Lee Parallel (DT) Fund VI, L.P. and THL Sterling Equity Investors, L.P. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 20, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.

E-1

Exhibit No.	Exhibit Index
10.2	First Amendment to the Investment Agreement by and between Sterling and Warburg Pincus Private Equity X, L.P. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 20, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.3	Form of Subscription Agreement by and between Sterling and private placement investors. Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 20, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.4	Second Amended and Restated Investment Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2010, between Sterling and Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund VI, L.P., Thomas H. Lee Parallel Fund VI, L.P., and Thomas H. Lee Parallel (DT) Fund VI, L.P. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 27, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.5	Investment Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2010, between Sterling and Warburg Pincus Private Equity X, L.P. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 27, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.6	Amended and Restated Investment Agreement, dated as of May 25, 2010, between Sterling and Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund VI, L.P., Thomas H. Lee Parallel Fund VI, L.P., and Thomas H. Lee Parallel (DT) Fund VI, L.P. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 6, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.7	Investment Agreement, dated as of May 5, 2010, between Sterling and Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund VI, L.P., Thomas H. Lee Parallel Fund VI, L.P. and Thomas H. Lee Parallel (DT) Fund VI, L.P. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Sterling's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2010, dated May 3, 2010, and incorporated by reference herein.
10.8	Letter Agreement by and between Sterling and Leslie S. Biller, dated January 25, 2013. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 25, 2013 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.9	Offer Letter by and between Sterling and Patrick J. Rusnak, dated January 21, 2011. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated February 17, 2011 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.1	Offer Letter by and between Sterling and David S. DePillo, dated October 19, 2010. Filed as Exhibit 10.6 to Sterling's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q dated November 5, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.11	Sterling Financial Corporation Change in Control Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 14, 2012 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.12	Form of Sterling Financial Corporation Change of Control Plan Participation Agreement, effective March 12, 2012. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 14, 2012 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.13	Investor Letter Agreement, dated as of September 11, 2013, among Sterling Financial Corporation, Umpqua Holdings Corporation and Thomas H. Lee Equity Fund VI, L.P., Thomas H. Lee Parallel Fund VI, L.P., and Thomas H. Less Parallel (DT) Fund VI, L.P. Filed as exhibit 10.1 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 17, 2013 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.14	Investor Letter Agreement, dated as of September 11, 2013, among Sterling Financial Corporation, Umpqua Holdings Corporation and Warburg Pincus Private Equity X, L.P. and Warburg Pincus X Partners, L.P. Filed as exhibit 10.2 to Sterling's Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 17, 2013 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.15	Sterling Financial Corporation 2011 Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Filed as Exhibit 99.1 to Sterling's Registration Statement on Form S-8 dated July 8, 2011 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.16	Sterling Financial Corporation 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 99.1 to Sterling's Registration Statement on Form S-8 dated December 9, 2010 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.17	Sterling Financial Corporation 2007 Long-Term Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 99.1 to Sterling's Registration Statement on Form S-8 dated July 30, 2007 and incorporated by reference herein.
10.18	Sterling Financial Corporation 2003 Long-Term Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.10 to Sterling's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, dated March 16, 2010, and incorporated by reference herein.
10.19	Sterling Financial Corporation 2001 Long-Term Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.9 to Sterling's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, dated March 16, 2010, and incorporated by reference herein.

E-2

Exhibit No.	Exhibit Index
10.20	Sterling Financial Corporation 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.7 to Sterling's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, dated March 16, 2010, and incorporated by reference herein.
10.21	Sterling Savings Bank Deferred Compensation Plan, effective date April 1, 2006. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Sterling's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, dated February 26, 2013, and incorporated by reference herein.
10.22	Sterling Financial Corporation Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan, effective July 1, 1999. Filed as Exhibit 10.8 to Sterling's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, dated March 16, 2010, and incorporated by reference herein.
10.23	Sterling Financial Corporation and Sterling Savings Bank Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.12 to Sterling's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, dated March 16, 2010, and incorporated by reference herein.
21.1	List of Subsidiaries of Sterling.
23.1	Consent of KPMG, LLP.
24.1	Power of Attorney (included with signature page).
31.1	Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Filed herewith.
31.2	Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Filed herewith.
32.1	Certification of Principal Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Furnished herewith.
32.2	Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Furnished herewith.
101.INS*	XBRL Instance Document. Furnished herewith.
101.SCH*	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema. Furnished herewith.
101.CAL*	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase. Furnished herewith.
101.LAB*	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase. Furnished herewith.
101.PRE*	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase. Furnished herewith.
*	Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are furnished and not deemed filed or part of a registration statement or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and otherwise are not subject to liability under these sections.

E-3

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors and Shareholders

Sterling Financial Corporation

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Sterling Financial Corporation and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three‑year period ended December 31, 2013. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Sterling Financial Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three‑year period ended December 31, 2013, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Sterling Financial Corporation and subsidiaries’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated February 26, 2014 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Seattle, Washington

February 26, 2014

F-1

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except shares)

	December 31, 2013			December 31, 2012
ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents:
Interest bearing	$	428,746		$	173,962
Noninterest bearing	109,942			125,916
Total cash and cash equivalents	538,688			299,878
Restricted cash	6,747			31,672
Investments and mortgage-backed securities ("MBS"):
Available for sale	1,429,812			1,513,157
Held to maturity	165			206
Loans held for sale, at fair value	138,952			465,983
Loans receivable, net ($26,462 and $23,177 at fair value)	7,331,228			6,101,749
Accrued interest receivable	28,493			28,019
Other real estate owned, net ("OREO")	8,047			25,042
Properties and equipment, net	101,610			93,850
Bank-owned life insurance ("BOLI")	191,553			179,828
Goodwill	52,018			22,577
Other intangible assets, net	15,561			19,072
Mortgage servicing rights, net	60,100			32,420
Deferred tax asset, net	284,059			292,082
Other assets, net	132,216			131,375
Total assets	$	10,319,249		$	9,236,910
LIABILITIES:
Deposits:
Noninterest bearing	$	1,881,360		$	1,702,740
Interest bearing	5,193,630			4,733,377
Total deposits	7,074,990			6,436,117
Advances from Federal Home Loan Bank ("FHLB")	1,146,103			605,330
Securities sold under repurchase agreements	531,679			586,867
Junior subordinated debentures	245,299			245,294
Accrued interest payable	4,284			4,229
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	100,947			141,150
Total liabilities	9,103,302			8,018,987
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred stock, 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares outstanding	0			0
Common stock, 151,515,151 shares authorized; 62,363,741 and 62,207,529 shares outstanding, respectively	1,972,457			1,968,025
Accumulated other comprehensive income	19,857			60,712
Accumulated deficit	(776,367		)	(810,814		)
Total shareholders' equity	1,215,947			1,217,923
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	10,319,249		$	9,236,910

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-2

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(in thousands, except share amounts)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
Interest income:
Loans	$	338,910		$	331,514		$	322,435
MBS	31,015			47,442			71,216
Investments and cash equivalents	9,096			10,244			10,641
Total interest income	379,021			389,200			404,292
Interest expense:
Deposits	23,863			37,697			59,634
Short-term borrowings	1,275			7,364			1,882
Long-term borrowings	29,649			39,461			47,581
Total interest expense	54,787			84,522			109,097
Net interest income	324,234			304,678			295,195
Provision for credit losses	0			10,000			30,000
Net interest income after provision for credit losses	324,234			294,678			265,195
Noninterest income:
Fees and service charges	60,917			55,773			50,073
Mortgage banking operations	59,956			97,292			49,163
BOLI	6,235			8,625			6,448
Gains on sales of securities	0			23,835			16,236
Other-than-temporary impairment credit losses on securities (1)	0			(6,819		)	0
Charge on prepayment of debt	0			(35,342		)	0
Gains on other loan sales	3,998			4,372			4,442
Other	9,480			6,517			(34		)
Total noninterest income	140,586			154,253			126,328
Noninterest expense	333,312			355,253			352,390
Income before income taxes	131,508			93,678			39,133
Income tax (provision) benefit:
Current	27			163			275
Deferred	(37,894		)	291,880			(275		)
Total income tax (provision) benefit	(37,867		)	292,043			0
Net income	$	93,641		$	385,721		$	39,133
Earnings per share - basic	$	1.50		$	6.21		$	0.63
Earnings per share - diluted	$	1.48		$	6.14		$	0.63
Dividends declared per share	$	0.95		$	0.80		$	0.00
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic	62,290,361			62,122,862			61,955,659
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted	63,371,763			62,772,079			62,231,208

⁽¹⁾ The other-than-temporary impairment recognized in earnings during 2012 did not have a portion recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income.

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-3

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(in thousands)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
Net income	$	93,641		$	385,721		$	39,133
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in unrealized gains (losses) on investments and MBS available for sale	(64,849		)	16,119			86,140
Realized net gains reclassified from other comprehensive income	0			(17,016		)	(18,462		)
Less deferred income tax benefit (provision)	23,994			494			(2,384		)
Net other comprehensive income (loss)	(40,855		)	(403		)	65,294
Comprehensive income	$	52,786		$	385,318		$	104,427

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-4

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(in thousands, except share amounts)

	Common Stock			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)			Retained Earnings (Deficit)			Total Shareholders' Equity
	Shares	Amount
Balance, January 1, 2011	61,926,187	$	1,960,871	$	(4,179	)	$	(1,185,925	)	$	770,767
Change in unrealized gain or loss on investments and MBS available for sale	0	0		65,294			0			65,294
Equity based compensation and related tax amounts	131,458	3,363		0			0			3,363
Net income	0	0		0			39,133			39,133
Balance, December 31, 2011	62,057,645	1,964,234		61,115			(1,146,792		)	878,557
Change in unrealized gain or loss on investments and MBS available for sale	0	0		(403		)	0			(403		)
Equity based compensation and related tax amounts	110,958	3,130		0			0			3,130
Employee stock purchase plan	38,926	661		0			0			661
Cash dividends paid to common shareholders	0	0		0			(49,743		)	(49,743		)
Net income	0	0		0			385,721			385,721
Balance, December 31, 2012	62,207,529	1,968,025		60,712			(810,814		)	1,217,923
Change in unrealized gain or loss on investments and MBS available for sale	0	0		(40,855		)	0			(40,855		)
Equity based compensation and related tax amounts	120,024	3,564		0			0			3,564
Employee stock purchase plan	36,188	868		0			0			868
Cash dividends paid to common shareholders	0	0		0			(59,194		)	(59,194		)
Net income	0	0		0			93,641			93,641
Balance, December 31, 2013	62,363,741	$	1,972,457	$	19,857		$	(776,367	)	$	1,215,947

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-5

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (in thousands)
	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	93,641		$	385,721		$	39,133
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Provision for credit losses	0			10,000			30,000
Net gain on sales of loans	(51,253		)	(98,223		)	(61,097		)
Net gain on sales of investments and MBS	0			(23,835		)	(16,236		)
Net (gain) loss on mortgage servicing rights	(6,948		)	216			6,179
Other-than-temporary impairment credit losses on securities	0			6,819			0
Stock based compensation	3,564			3,130			3,363
Loss on OREO	2,418			247			16,628
Deferred income tax provision (benefit)	37,894			(291,880		)	275
Charge on prepayment of debt	0			35,342			0
Increase in cash surrender value of BOLI	(5,931		)	(8,401		)	(6,213		)
Depreciation and amortization	43,184			45,843			42,651
Bargain purchase gain	(7,544		)	0			0
Change in:
Accrued interest receivable	1,106			8,337			1,261
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(16,676		)	(24,098		)	(1,342		)
Accrued interest payable	11			(18,479		)	5,316
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	(50,475		)	29,548			(9,003		)
Proceeds from sales of loans originated for sale	2,745,176			2,728,418			2,076,393
Loans originated for sale	(2,375,378		)	(2,915,204		)	(2,043,236		)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	412,789			(126,499		)	84,072
Cash flows from investing activities:
Change in restricted cash	24,925			(11,043		)	(4,948		)
Net change in loans	(852,445		)	(500,452		)	(285,736		)
Proceeds from sales of loans	143,151			139,356			91,456
Purchase of investment securities	0			(3,734		)	(10,357		)
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities	4,085			20,588			2,012
Proceeds from sale of investment securities	18,219			199,966			30,987
Purchase of MBS	(322,965		)	(287,849		)	(760,519		)
Principal payments received on MBS	328,142			613,809			533,851
Proceeds from sales of MBS	48,886			679,208			555,353
Proceeds from BOLI death benefits	0			3,714			1,187
Changes in office properties and equipment, net	(19,365		)	(9,853		)	(15,881		)
Improvements and other changes to OREO	(551		)	(1,282		)	(5,613		)
Proceeds from sales of OREO	39,890			91,402			246,609
Net change in cash and cash equivalents from acquisitions	(150,120		)	121,098			0
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities	$	(738,148	)	$	1,054,928		$	378,401

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-6

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS—cont. (in thousands)
	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in deposits	$	162,842		$	(745,620	)	$	(425,189	)
Advances from FHLB	1,875,000			545,000			0
Repayment of advances from FHLB	(1,360,158		)	(345,210		)	(1,519		)
Net change in short term repurchase agreements	(5,188		)	(18,896		)	23,251
Payments under structured repurchase agreements	(50,000		)	(485,342		)	0
Proceeds from stock issuance, net	868			661			0
Cash dividends paid	(59,195		)	(49,743		)	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	564,169			(1,099,150		)	(403,457		)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	238,810			(170,721		)	59,016
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	299,878			470,599			411,583
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	538,688		$	299,878		$	470,599
Supplemental disclosures:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest	$	54,732		$	102,868		$	103,781
Income taxes, net	599			44			(250		)
Noncash financing and investing activities:
Foreclosed real estate acquired in settlement of loans	19,959			33,499			177,881

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-7

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

1. Significant Accounting Policies:

Sterling Financial Corporation, with headquarters in Spokane, Washington, was organized under the laws of Washington State in 1992 as the bank holding company for Sterling Savings Bank, which commenced operations in 1983. References to "Sterling," "the Company," "we," "our," or "us" in this report are to Sterling Financial Corporation, a Washington corporation, and its consolidated subsidiaries on a combined basis, unless otherwise specified or the context otherwise requires. References to "Sterling Bank" refer to our subsidiary Sterling Savings Bank, a Washington state-chartered commercial bank. Sterling Savings Bank does business as Sterling Bank in Washington, Oregon and Idaho, and as Argent Bank in California, offering retail and commercial banking products and services, mortgage lending and trust and investment products to individuals, small businesses, commercial organizations and corporations. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling had assets of $10.32 billion and operated 173 depository branches in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and California.

Basis of Presentation. The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Sterling and its directly and indirectly wholly owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Estimates. The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities known to exist as of the date the financial statements are published, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Uncertainties with respect to such estimates and assumptions are inherent in the preparation of Sterling's consolidated financial statements; accordingly, it is possible that the actual results could differ from these estimates and assumptions, which could have a material effect on the reported amounts of Sterling's consolidated financial position and results of operations.

Cash and Cash Equivalents. Cash equivalents include investments with a remaining maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase. Cash and cash equivalents are deposited with other banks and financial institutions in amounts that may at times exceed the federal insurance limit. Sterling evaluates the credit quality of these banks and financial institutions to mitigate its credit risk.

Restricted cash consists of noninterest bearing deposits maintained as a reserve at the Federal Reserve Bank, and cash collateral balances with correspondent banks.

Sterling occasionally purchases securities under agreements with other institutions to resell the same or similar securities. The amounts advanced under these agreements represent short-term loans and are reflected as interest bearing cash equivalents in the consolidated balance sheet. The securities underlying the agreements are comprised of mutual fund shares that are primarily invested in U.S. government securities.

Investments and MBS. Sterling classifies debt and equity securities as follows:

• Trading Securities. Debt or equity securities are classified as trading securities if acquired principally for the purpose of generating a profit from short-term fluctuations in price. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling did not hold any securities that it deems to be trading securities.

• Available for Sale. Debt and equity securities that are not classified as trading securities or held to maturity are classified as available for sale and are carried at fair value.

• Held to Maturity. These are investments that Sterling has the intent and ability to hold until maturity.

Premiums and discounts are amortized using the effective yield method over the weighted average life of the underlying security as estimated at time of purchase. Realized gains and losses on sales of investments and MBS are recognized in the statement of operations in the period sold using the specific identification method. FHLB stock is carried at cost, and is included in other assets.

F-8

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Month end security price valuations are provided by a third party pricing service. These valuations are based on market data using pricing models that vary by asset class and incorporate available current trade, bid and other market information, and for structured securities, cash flow and loan performance data. The pricing processes utilize benchmark curves, benchmarking of similar securities, sector groupings, and matrix pricing. Option adjusted spread models are also used to assess the impact of changes in interest rates and to develop prepayment scenarios. All models and processes used take into account market convention.

Declines in the fair value of securities below their amortized cost that are other-than-temporary are reflected in earnings or other comprehensive income, as appropriate. For those debt securities whose fair value is less than their amortized cost basis, we consider our intent to sell the securities, whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the securities before recovery, and whether or not we expect to recover our entire amortized cost basis in the investment. In making this assessment, considerations will include whether the issue is a government or government sponsored security, and whether or not rating downgrades have occurred. The assessment of other-than-temporary impairment includes an assessment of the carrying value of FHLB stock. FHLB stock is not a marketable security, and therefore, its value is primarily attributable to the borrowing capacity it provides.

Loans Receivable. Loans receivable that management of Sterling has the intent and ability to hold for the foreseeable future or until maturity or pay-off are reported at their outstanding principal balance net of unamortized origination and commitment fees, direct loan origination costs and an allowance for loan losses.

Interest income is recognized over the term of loans based on their unpaid principal balance. The accrual of interest on loans is discontinued when, in management's opinion, a borrower may be unable to make payments as they become due, generally due to the payment of principal or interest being in default for a period of 90 days or more. When interest accrual is discontinued, all unpaid accrued interest is reversed. The interest payments received on these loans is accounted for on the cash basis or cost recovery method, until qualifying for a return to an accrual status. Loans return to an accrual status when all principal and interest is brought current, and future payments are reasonably assured.

Loans are designated as troubled debt restructurings ("TDR's") when a borrower has financial difficulties and Sterling grants a concession that it would not otherwise consider. The concession can take the form of an interest rate or principal reduction or an extension of payments of principal or interest, or both. TDRs may be the result of granting extensions to troubled credits which have already been adversely classified. We grant such extensions to reassess the borrower's financial status and develop a plan for repayment. We rarely forgive principal for TDRs, but in those situations where principal is forgiven, the entire amount of such principal forgiveness is immediately charged off, if not done so previously. We may grant an extension on the timing of the repayment of a portion of principal (principal forbearance) and charge off any amounts not considered fully collectible. We also consider insignificant delays in payments when determining if a loan should be classified as a TDR. Loans designated as TDRs may be returned to accrual status after the borrower performs in accordance with the modified loan terms, generally for a period of at least six months. A loan may be removed from TDR status after at least one year of performance under the modified term of the loan, unless the modification includes an interest rate concession that is below a market rate of interest for a new loan with similar characteristics. TDRs are periodically evaluated for impairment for the remainder of their term.

Certain acquired loans may be deemed to exhibit evidence of credit deterioration since their origination. When it is considered probable that all contractually required principal and interest payments will not be collected, a loan will be considered a purchased credit impaired ("PCI") loan. The accounting for PCI loans is periodically updated for changes in cash flow expectations, and reflected in interest income over the life of the loans as accretable yield.

Allowance for Credit Losses. Sterling maintains an allowance for credit losses at a level deemed appropriate by management to provide for estimated losses. Additions to the allowance, in the form of provisions, are reflected in current operating results. Other changes to the allowance occur from reductions due to credit charge-offs when a loss is determined to be a confirmed loss, or additions to the allowance from the recovery of amounts previously charged-off.

Sterling regularly reviews its classified assets for impairment. If a loan is determined to be impaired, Sterling performs a valuation analysis on the loan. The analysis compares the estimated fair value (discounted cash flow analysis or collateral market value less selling costs), and the book balance (loan principal and accrued interest). A loan is considered collateral-dependent if repayment of the loan is expected to be provided solely by the underlying collateral and there are no other available and reliable sources of repayment. For loans that are considered collateral-dependent, the difference between the fair value and the book value is charged off as a confirmed loss. For certain non-collateral-dependent loans, Sterling generally

F-9

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

establishes a specific reserve for the difference between fair value and book value of these loans, as the loss is not defined as a confirmed loss because it is not based solely on collateral values.

The allowance is based upon historical loss experience, loan migration analysis, delinquency trends, portfolio size, concentrations of risk, prevailing and anticipated economic conditions, industry experience, estimated collateral values, management's assessment of credit risk inherent in the portfolio, specific problem loans and other relevant factors. The portfolio is grouped into several segments for loans collectively evaluated for impairment based on characteristics such as loan type, borrower and collateral. Loan migration to loss data is used to determine the annual "probability of default." The annual probability of default is adjusted for the estimated loss emergence period and may be further adjusted based on an assessment of qualitative factors. The estimated loss rates are established considering historical life-to-date losses net of recoveries on loans remaining in the portfolio, the trailing twelve months of losses on OREO (including losses on foreclosure, write-downs, and losses on sale), and losses on discounted note sales, resulting in a quantified "loss given default." The loss given default is then combined with the probability of default. The resulting estimated loss rates are validated against multiple metrics, including historical one-year and three-year annualized losses, net of recoveries, the historical trend in prior period estimated loss rates and management's assessment of the inherent losses based upon specific knowledge of the loan portfolio.

If the calculated loss rates differ significantly from the one-year and three-year actual loss rates and/or is inconsistent with the historical trends, Sterling performs further analysis to identify and evaluate the possible causes of the differences. This includes evaluating the characteristics of the historical loss and recovery data used in calculating the loss rates to determine whether such activity is an appropriate reflection, in management's judgment, of the current inherent losses in the various loan categories. This analysis takes into consideration the impact of the qualitative factors that increase the probability of default in the calculated loss rates in assessing whether there is additional qualitative risk. Because the allowance for credit losses is based on management's estimate, ultimate losses may materially differ from the estimates.

Loans Held for Sale. Any loan that management determines will not be held to maturity is classified as held for sale. Residential loans held for sale are carried at fair value in order to match changes in the value of the loans with the value of the economic hedges on the loans without applying complex hedge accounting. The fair value of loans held for sale is determined based upon an analysis of investor quoted pricing inputs in the secondary market. Other loan types classified as held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or market.

Loan Origination and Commitment Fees. Loan origination fees, net of direct origination costs, are deferred and recognized as interest income using the effective yield method. If the related loan is sold, the remaining net amount, which is part of the basis of the loan, is considered in determining the gain or loss on sale.

Loan commitment fees are deferred until the expiration of the commitment period unless management believes there is a remote likelihood that the underlying commitment will be exercised, in which case the fees are amortized to fee income using the straight-line method over the commitment period. If a loan commitment is exercised, the deferred commitment fee is accounted for in the same manner as a loan origination fee. Deferred commitment fees associated with expired commitments are recognized as fee income.

Other Real Estate Owned. Prior to foreclosure, Sterling considers all viable alternatives, checks with the proper authorities to ensure the existence of a valid and recorded lien on the property and determines the current market value of the collateral. Property and other assets acquired through foreclosure of defaulted mortgage or other collateralized loans are recorded at fair value, less estimated costs to sell the property and other assets. The fair value of OREO is generally determined using "as is" or disposition values from appraisals obtained by independent appraisers.

An allowance for losses on OREO is designed to include amounts for estimated losses as a result of impairment in value of the real property after repossession. Sterling reviews its OREO for impairment at least quarterly or whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the property or other assets may not be recoverable. In performing the review, if the fair value, less selling costs, is less than its carrying value, a specific reserve is established as a charge to noninterest expenses.

Property and Equipment. Property and equipment is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are computed using the straight-line method over the lesser of the estimated useful lives or the related lease terms of the assets. Expenditures for new property and equipment and major renewals or betterments are capitalized. Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are charged to expense as incurred. Upon sale or retirement, the cost and

F-10

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

related accumulated depreciation are removed from the respective property or equipment accounts, and the resulting gains or losses are reflected in operations.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Goodwill represents the difference between the value of consideration paid and the fair value of the net assets received in a business combination. Sterling records impairment losses as charges to noninterest expense and adjustments to the carrying value of goodwill.

Goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis as of June 30, or more frequently as events occur, or as current circumstances and conditions warrant. A qualitative assessment to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill, determines the extent to which further testing is required. If the qualitative analysis concludes that further analysis is required, that analysis would compare the fair value of each of the reporting units to the respective carrying amounts. For the 2013 annual impairment analysis, a qualitative assessment was completed and no further steps were considered necessary.

Other intangible assets are comprised primarily of core deposit intangibles, as well as other identifiable intangibles related to First Independent's trust and wealth management business. Core deposit intangibles are amortized on an accelerated basis over the estimated useful life of the deposit relationship, which ranges from seven to 11 years. Other intangible assets are periodically assessed for impairment when certain triggering events occur that indicate the possibility of impairment.

Mortgage Servicing Rights and Transfers of Financial Assets. Gains or losses on "servicing-retained" loan sale transactions generally include a component reflecting the differential between the contractual interest rate of the loan and the interest rate to be received by the investor. The present value of the estimated future profit for servicing the loans and changes in the fair value of any related derivatives,is also taken into account in determining the amount of gain or loss on the sale of these loans. For loans sold servicing-retained, the fair value of mortgage servicing rights is recorded as an asset, with their value estimated using a discounted cash flow methodology to arrive at the present value of future expected earnings from the servicing of the loans. Model inputs include prepayment speeds, market interest rates, servicing costs, contractual interest rates on the loans being serviced, and the amount of other fee income generated over the servicing contract. Mortgage servicing rights are amortized in proportion to, and over the estimated period of the servicing revenues. To the extent the carrying value of mortgage servicing rights exceeds the subsequent fair value estimates, a valuation allowance is recognized. Subsequent recoveries in value are recognized up to the original carrying value of the mortgage servicing rights only to the extent of cumulative valuation adjustments.

Loans sold into the secondary market are considered transfers of financial assets. These transfers are accounted for as sales when control over the asset has been surrendered, which is deemed to have occurred when: an asset does not have any claims to it by the transferor or their creditors, including in bankruptcy or other receivership situations; the transferee obtains the unconditional right to pledge or exchange the asset; or the transfer does not include a repurchase provision above the limited recourse provisions of these loan sales.

Income Taxes. Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. Under this method, a deferred tax asset or liability is determined based on the enacted tax rates that will be in effect when the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and tax basis of existing assets and liabilities are expected to be reported in Sterling's income tax returns. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Sterling estimates income taxes payable based on the amount it expects to owe various taxing authorities. Accrued income taxes represent the net estimated amount due to, or to be received from, taxing authorities. In estimating accrued income taxes, Sterling assesses the relative merits and risks of the appropriate tax treatment of transactions, taking into account the applicable statutory, judicial and regulatory guidance in the context of Sterling's tax position. Sterling also considers recent audits and examinations, as well as its historical experience in making such estimates. Although Sterling uses available information to record income taxes, underlying estimates and assumptions can change over time as a result of unanticipated events or circumstances. Penalties and interest associated with any potential estimate variances would be included in income tax expense in the consolidated financial statements.

A deferred tax asset valuation allowance was established during 2009 due to the three year cumulative loss and uncertainty at that time regarding Sterling's ability to generate future taxable income. Reversal of substantially all of the deferred tax asset valuation allowance occurred during 2012. Prior to reversing the allowance, management analyzed both positive and negative evidence that could affect the realization of the deferred tax asset. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling determined that it continues to be more likely than not that substantially all of the net deferred tax asset would be realized.

F-11

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Earnings Per Share. Earnings per share—basic is computed by dividing net income or loss available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period. Earnings per share—diluted is computed by dividing net income or loss available to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares outstanding, increased by the additional shares that would have been outstanding if all potentially dilutive and contingently issuable shares had been issued. The accounting standards codification requires a two-class method of computing earnings per share for entities that have participating securities such as Sterling's unvested restricted shares. Application of the two-class method resulted in the equivalent earnings per share to the treasury method.

Stock-Based Compensation. Stock options and restricted stock issued as compensation are recorded as an expense, over the vesting term of the awards, at their estimated grant date fair value. The Black-Scholes option pricing model is used to estimate the fair value of stock options granted, while the value of restricted stock awards are recorded using the grant date market closing price of Sterling's common stock.

Comprehensive Income. Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) is comprised of unrealized gains and losses on securities available for sale, and is a separate component of shareholders' equity. Sterling reports and displays comprehensive income and its components (revenues, expenses, gains and losses) on its Statement of Comprehensive Income. For the periods presented, accumulated other comprehensive income was comprised solely of unrealized market value adjustments on securities available for sale. The realized portion reclassified out of other comprehensive income is reflected on the income statement in gains on sales of securities and other-than-temporary impairment.

Derivatives and Hedging. Sterling enters into interest rate swap transactions with loan customers. The interest rate risk on these swap transactions is hedged by Sterling entering into offsetting interest rate swap agreements with various unaffiliated counterparties ("broker-dealers"). Both customer and broker-dealer related interest rate derivatives are carried at fair value, which includes consideration of counterparty credit risk.

As part of its mortgage banking activities, Sterling makes commitments to prospective borrowers on residential mortgage loan applications, which may have the interest rates locked for a period of 10 to 60 days or longer, if extended ("interest rate lock commitments"). The interest rate lock commitments are recorded at fair value net of the anticipated fallout. These interest rate lock commitments, and loans held for sale that have not been committed to investors, give rise to interest rate risk. Sterling hedges the interest rate risk arising from these mortgage banking activities by entering into forward sales agreements on MBS with third parties ("forward commitments").

Reclassifications. Certain amounts in prior period financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the current year's presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on the accumulated deficit or net income as previously reported.

During 2012, Sterling identified an error related to the classification of the loss on foreclosure amounts reported in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the quarter ended March 31, 2012, and for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, and the interim periods therein. The loss on foreclosure amounts were previously included in the cash flows from operating activities in the "Loss on OREO" line item, instead of the cash flows from investing activities in the "Net change in loans" line item. In accordance with the SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 99, "Materiality," and SAB No. 108, "Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements," management evaluated the materiality of the error from qualitative and quantitative perspectives and concluded that the error was immaterial to prior periods. Consequently, the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows contained in this Report has been revised for the year ended December 31, 2011. This change resulted in a decrease of $51.3 million to cash flows from operating activities and an increase of the same amount to cash flows from investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2011. This change did not affect net income, the balance sheet, or shareholders' equity for any period.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements. In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2013-04, "Obligations Resulting from Joint and Several Liability Arrangements for Which the Total Amount of the Obligation Is Fixed at the Reporting Date." ASU 2013-04 provides guidance for the recognition, measurement, and disclosure of such obligations. ASU 2013-04 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2013, and is not expected to have a material impact on Sterling's consolidated financial statements.

In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11, "Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists." ASU 2013-11 provides guidance on the presentation of

F-12

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

unrecognized tax benefits related to any disallowed portion of net operating loss carryforwards, similar tax losses, or tax credit carryforwards, if they exist. ASU 2013-11 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2013, and is not expected to have a material impact on Sterling's consolidated financial statements.

In January 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-01, "Accounting for Investments in Qualified Affordable Housing Projects." ASU 2014-01 provides an election to account for investments in qualified affordable housing projects using the proportional amortization method if certain conditions are met. Under the proportional amortization method, an entity amortizes the initial cost of the investment in proportion to the tax credits and other tax benefits received and recognizes the net investment performance in the income statement as a component of income tax expense or benefit. ASU 2014-01 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2014, and is not expected to have a material impact on Sterling's consolidated financial statements.

In January 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-04, "Reclassification of Residential Real Estate Collateralized Consumer Mortgage Loans upon Foreclosure." ASU 2014-04 clarifies when an in substance repossession or foreclosure occurs, that is, when a creditor should be considered to have received physical possession of residential real estate property serving as collateral for a consumer mortgage loan such that the loan receivable should no longer be recognized, and instead, the real estate property should be recognized. ASU 2014-01 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2014, and is not expected to have a material impact on Sterling's consolidated financial statements.

2. Business Combinations:

Commerce National Bank. On October 1, 2013, Sterling paid $42.9 million in cash to acquire Commerce National Bank ("CNB"). The following table summarizes the amounts recorded at closing:

	October 1, 2013
	(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents	$	8,555
Investments and MBS	69,353
Loans receivable, net	161,043
Goodwill	15,384
Core deposit intangible	1,160
Other assets	5,325
Total assets acquired	$	260,820
Deposits	$	189,563
Advances from FHLB	25,000
Other liabilities	3,350
Total liabilities assumed	217,913
Net assets acquired	$	42,907

The recorded goodwill represents the inherent value of the CNB transaction, as a result of the expected enhancement of Sterling's operations in Southern California. The amount of goodwill deductible for income tax purposes is approximately equivalent to the recorded book value. The core deposit intangible has an amortization period of approximately ten years and will be amortized on an accelerated basis. The fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed are presented above.

As of October 1, 2013, the unpaid principal balance and contractual interest ("contractual cash flows") on purchased loans was $164.2 million. Sterling estimated that $3.7 million of these cash flows would be uncollectable, resulting in a combined credit and interest rate discount of $3.8 million being recorded on these loans. As of the acquisition date, the amount of loans purchased from CNB that exhibited evidence of credit deterioration was immaterial.

F-13

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Boston Private Bank and Trust Company. On May 10, 2013, Sterling paid $123.0 million in cash to acquire the Puget Sound operations of Boston Private Bank & Trust Company ("Boston Private"). The Boston Private Puget Sound offices were located in Seattle, Bellevue and Redmond, Washington. Upon acquisition, the Boston Private Seattle branch was consolidated into one of Sterling's existing Seattle branches. The following table summarizes the amounts recorded at closing:

	May 10, 2013
	(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents	340
Loans receivable, net	273,353
Goodwill	14,056
Core deposit intangible	1,674
Other assets	2,721
Total assets acquired	$	292,144
Deposits	$	168,246
Other liabilities	913
Total liabilities assumed	169,159
Net assets acquired	$	122,985

The recorded goodwill represents the inherent value of the Boston Private transaction, which expands Sterling's presence in the Puget Sound market through the addition of two branch offices and the associated customer relationships. The additional branches are along the I-5 corridor, which Sterling identified as its primary focus for growth.The amount of goodwill deductible for income tax purposes is approximately equivalent to the recorded book value. The core deposit intangible will be amortized on an accelerated basis over approximately ten years.

As of May 10, 2013, the contractual cash flows on purchased loans was $280.7 million. Sterling estimated that $3.5 million of these cash flows would be uncollectable, resulting in a combined credit and interest rate discount of $5.1 million being recorded on these loans. As of the acquisition date, none of the loans purchased from Boston Private exhibited evidence of credit deterioration.

American Heritage Holdings. On February 28, 2013, Sterling paid $6.5 million in cash and paid off an existing note payable of $2.2 million for a total of $8.7 million in consideration to acquire American Heritage Holdings, the holding company for Borrego Springs Bank, N.A. ("Borrego"). Immediately following the acquisition, Borrego was merged with and into Sterling Bank. As a result of this transaction, Sterling has expanded its SBA lending platform and added depository branches in Southern California. The following table summarizes the amounts recorded at closing:

	February 28, 2013
	(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents	$	15,626
Investments and MBS	1,030
Loans receivable, net	97,262
Core deposit intangible	453
Other assets	27,197
Total assets acquired	$	141,568
Deposits	$	118,221
Other liabilities	7,054
Total liabilities assumed	125,275
Net assets acquired	16,293
Consideration paid	8,749
Bargain purchase gain	$	7,544

F-14

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Sterling recognized a bargain purchase gain of $7.5 million in the transaction for the net assets acquired in excess of the purchase price, primarily due to a limited market for Borrego's assets, as well as Borrego's regulatory and capital constraints. The bargain purchase gain is included in other noninterest income on the income statement for the year ended December 31, 2013. The core deposit intangible will be amortized for 11 years on an accelerated basis. On the acquisition date of February 28, 2013, the contractual cash flows of purchased impaired loans, which are described in Note 4, from Borrego were $16.1 million, cash flows expected to be collected were $13.6 million, and the fair value of the loans was $11.9 million, with $9.8 million of these loans being guaranteed by government agencies.

As of February 28, 2013, the contractual cash flows on purchased loans that had not exhibited evidence of credit deterioration was $83.3 million. Sterling estimated that $3.9 million of these cash flows would be uncollectable, resulting in a combined credit and interest rate discount of $4.5 million being recorded on these loans.

First Independent Bank. On February 29, 2012, Sterling Bank completed its acquisition of the operations of First Independent Bank ("First Independent") of Vancouver, Washington, by acquiring certain assets and assuming certain liabilities, including all deposits for a net purchase price of $40.6 million, comprised of $28.9 million of cash paid at closing and contingent consideration with a fair value of $11.7 million at acquisition date. During the third quarter of 2013, the contingent consideration was paid in full. See Note 22. The following table summarizes the amounts recorded at closing:

	February 29, 2012
	(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents	$	150,045
Investments and MBS	187,465
Loans receivable, net	349,990
Goodwill	22,577
Core deposit intangible	11,974
Fixed assets	4,038
Other assets	10,886
Total assets acquired	$	736,975
Deposits	$	695,919
Other liabilities	409
Total liabilities assumed	696,328
Net assets acquired	$	40,647

The recorded goodwill of $22.6 million represents the inherent long-term value anticipated from synergies expected to be achieved as a result of the transaction. The First Independent transaction expanded Sterling's presence in the Vancouver and Portland markets. The amount of goodwill deductible for income tax purposes is approximately equivalent to the recorded book value. The core deposit intangible has a weighted average amortization period of ten years and will be amortized on an accelerated basis. On the acquisition date of February 29, 2012, the contractual cash flows of purchased impaired loans from First Independent were $24.4 million, cash flows expected to be collected were $17.2 million, and the fair value of the loans was $15.3 million.

As of February 29, 2012, the contractual cash flows on purchased loans that had not exhibited evidence of credit deterioration was $403.8 million. Sterling estimated that $12.7 million of these cash flows would be uncollectable, resulting in a discount of $21.8 million being recorded on these loans.

F-15

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table presents certain First Independent stand alone amounts and pro forma Sterling and First Independent combined amounts as if the transaction had occurred on January 1, 2011. Cost savings estimates are not included in the pro forma combined results, nor are certain credit impaired loans and associated losses excluded from the purchase and assumption transaction.

	First Independent (stand alone)		Pro Forma Combined
	Years Ended December 31,
	2012		2012		2011
	(in thousands, except per share data; unaudited)
Net interest income	$	20,145	$	311,159	$	326,916
Noninterest income	4,757		155,258		135,828
Net income	10,817		389,935		49,469
Earnings per share - basic	0.17		6.28		0.80
Earnings per share - diluted	$	0.17	$	6.21	$	0.79

3. Investments and MBS:

The carrying and fair values of investments and MBS are summarized as follows:

	Amortized Cost		Gross Unrealized Gains		Gross Unrealized Losses			Fair Value
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2013
Available for sale
MBS	$	1,248,908	$	13,269	$	(22,277	)	$	1,239,900
Municipal bonds	184,642		6,045		(997		)	189,690
Other	212		10		0			222
Total	$	1,433,762	$	19,324	$	(23,274	)	$	1,429,812
Held to maturity
Tax credits	$	165	$	0	$	0		$	165
Total	$	165	$	0	$	0		$	165
December 31, 2012
Available for sale
MBS	$	1,263,786	$	45,052	$	0		$	1,308,838
Municipal bonds	188,467		16,452		(613		)	204,306
Other	5		8		0			13
Total	$	1,452,258	$	61,512	$	(613	)	$	1,513,157
Held to maturity
Tax credits	$	206	$	0	$	0		$	206
Total	$	206	$	0	$	0		$	206

F-16

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Sterling's MBS portfolio is comprised primarily of residential agency securities. Total sales of Sterling's securities during the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 are summarized as follows:

	Proceeds from Sales		Gross Realized Gains		Gross Realized Losses
	(in thousands)
Years Ended:
December 31, 2013	$	67,105	$	0	$	0
December 31, 2012	879,174		24,024		189
December 31, 2011	586,340		18,771		2,535

The following table summarizes Sterling's investments and MBS that had a market value below their amortized cost as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, segregated by those investments that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for less than 12 months and those that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position for 12 months or longer:

	Less than 12 months					12 months or longer					Total
	Market Value		Unrealized Losses			Market Value		Unrealized Losses			Market Value		Unrealized Losses
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2013
MBS	$	679,954	$	(22,277	)	$	0	$	0		$	679,954	$	(22,277	)
Municipal bonds	10,051		(268		)	12,947		(729		)	22,998		(997		)
Other	0		0			0		0			0		0
Total	$	690,005	$	(22,545	)	$	12,947	$	(729	)	$	702,952	$	(23,274	)
December 31, 2012
MBS	$	0	$	0		$	0	$	0		$	0	$	0
Municipal bonds	0		0			12,921		(613		)	12,921		(613		)
Other	0		0			0		0			0		0
Total	$	0	$	0		$	12,921	$	(613	)	$	12,921	$	(613	)

Management evaluates investment securities for other-than-temporary declines in fair value each quarter. If the fair value of investment securities falls below the amortized cost and the decline is deemed to be other-than temporary, the securities are written down to current market value, resulting in the recognition of an other-than-temporary impairment ("OTTI"). During 2013, no securities were determined to be other-than-temporarily impaired, as the unrealized losses in the portfolio are driven by market interest rates. During 2012, $6.8 million of OTTI was recognized on a single issuer trust preferred security. During the fourth quarter of 2012, the security was sold at a gain of $2.5 million.

The following table presents the amortized cost and fair value of securities available for sale and held to maturity as of December 31, 2013, grouped by contractual maturity. Actual maturities for MBS will differ from contractual maturities as a result of the level of prepayments experienced on the underlying mortgages.

	Held to maturity				Available for sale
	Amortized Cost		Estimated Fair Value		Amortized Cost		Estimated Fair Value
	(in thousands)
Due within one year	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0
Due after one year through five years	0		0		20,140		20,395
Due after five years through ten years	0		0		83,919		83,539
Due after ten years	165		165		1,329,703		1,325,878
Total	$	165	$	165	$	1,433,762	$	1,429,812

F-17

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

4. Loans Receivable and Allowance for Credit Losses:

The following table presents the composition of Sterling's loan portfolio as of the balance sheet dates:

	December 31, 2013			December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)
Residential real estate	$	1,119,574		$	806,722
Commercial real estate ("CRE"):
Investor CRE	1,114,768			1,219,847
Multifamily	2,156,434			1,580,289
Construction	71,693			74,665
Total CRE	3,342,895			2,874,801
Commercial:
Owner occupied CRE	1,431,140			1,276,591
Commercial & Industrial ("C&I")	742,142			540,499
Total commercial	2,173,282			1,817,090
Consumer	822,068			754,621
Gross loans receivable	7,457,819			6,253,234
Deferred loan costs (fees), net	10,703			2,860
Allowance for loan losses	(137,294		)	(154,345		)
Net loans receivable	$	7,331,228		$	6,101,749

Gross loans pledged as collateral for borrowings from the FHLB and the Federal Reserve totaled $4.95 billion and $4.15 billion as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

Loans receivable include purchased impaired loans, which are loans acquired that are deemed to exhibit evidence of credit deterioration since origination, and are therefore classified as impaired. The accounting for purchased impaired loans is updated quarterly for changes in the loans' cash flow expectations, and reflected in interest income over the life of the loans as accretable yield. As of December 31, 2013, no allowance for credit losses was recorded in connection with purchased impaired loans, and the unpaid principal balance and carrying amount of these loans were $28.0 million and $16.7 million, respectively.

The following table presents a roll-forward of accretable yield over the periods presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance	$	1,332		$	0
Additions	1,774			1,923
Accretion to interest income	(1,739		)	(756		)
Reclassifications from non-accretable	1,622			165
Ending balance	$	2,989		$	1,332

F-18

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

As of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, net loans receivable included unamortized discounts on acquired loans of $28.4 million and $21.3 million, respectively. The following table presents, as of December 31, 2013, the five-year projected loan discount accretion expected to be recognized as interest income:

Years ended December 31,	Amount
	(in thousands)
2014	$	5,707
2015	3,536
2016	2,201
2017	1,502
2018	1,052

F-19

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table sets forth details by segment for Sterling's loan portfolio and related allowance as of the balance sheet dates:

	Residential Real Estate		Commercial Real Estate		Commercial		Consumer		Unallocated		Total
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2013
Loans receivable, gross:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	7,924	$	58,232	$	37,794	$	0	$	0	$	103,950
Collectively evaluated for impairment	1,111,650		3,284,663		2,135,488		822,068		0		7,353,869
Total loans receivable, gross	$	1,119,574	$	3,342,895	$	2,173,282	$	822,068	$	0	$	7,457,819
Allowance for loan losses:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	2,968	$	952	$	2,842	$	155	$	0	$	6,917
Collectively evaluated for impairment	11,277		40,201		39,272		27,423		12,204		130,377
Total allowance for loan losses	$	14,245	$	41,153	$	42,114	$	27,578	$	12,204	$	137,294
December 31, 2012
Loans receivable, gross:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	9,134	$	68,317	$	48,312	$	494	$	0	$	126,257
Collectively evaluated for impairment	797,588		2,806,484		1,768,778		754,127		0		6,126,977
Total loans receivable, gross	$	806,722	$	2,874,801	$	1,817,090	$	754,621	$	0	$	6,253,234
Allowance for loan losses:
Individually evaluated for impairment	$	365	$	3,182	$	4,916	$	0	$	0	$	8,463
Collectively evaluated for impairment	19,482		44,912		36,958		25,602		18,928		145,882
Total allowance for loan losses	$	19,847	$	48,094	$	41,874	$	25,602	$	18,928	$	154,345

Loans collectively evaluated for impairment include purchased credit impaired loans, which were $16.7 million and $11.2 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

F-20

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following tables present a roll-forward by segment of the allowance for credit losses for the periods presented:

	Residential Real Estate			Commercial Real Estate			Commercial			Consumer			Unallocated			Total
	(in thousands)
2013
Allowance for loan losses:
Beginning balance, January 1	$	19,847		$	48,094		$	41,874		$	25,602		$	18,928		$	154,345
Provisions	(2,924		)	(4,639		)	2,614			6,473			(6,724		)	(5,200		)
Charge-offs	(4,167		)	(11,722		)	(6,572		)	(5,900		)	0			(28,361		)
Recoveries	1,489			9,420			4,198			1,403			0			16,510
Ending balance, December 31	14,245			41,153			42,114			27,578			12,204			137,294
Reserve for unfunded credit commitments:
Beginning balance, January 1	2,230			405			2,806			2,118			443			8,002
Provisions	3,171			593			326			1,481			(371		)	5,200
Charge-offs	(2,081		)	0			0			0			0			(2,081		)
Recoveries	0			0			0			0			0			0
Ending balance, December 31	3,320			998			3,132			3,599			72			11,121
Total credit allowance	$	17,565		$	42,151		$	45,246		$	31,177		$	12,276		$	148,415
2012
Allowance for loan losses:
Beginning balance, January 1	$	15,197		$	91,722		$	38,046		$	13,427		$	19,066		$	177,458
Provisions	8,778			(33,184		)	12,189			19,855			(138		)	7,500
Charge-offs	(5,203		)	(27,385		)	(17,005		)	(9,144		)	0			(58,737		)
Recoveries	1,075			16,941			8,644			1,464			0			28,124
Ending balance, December 31	19,847			48,094			41,874			25,602			18,928			154,345
Reserve for unfunded credit commitments:
Beginning balance, January 1	3,828			2,321			1,796			1,787			297			10,029
Provisions	2,929			(1,916		)	1,010			331			146			2,500
Charge-offs	(4,527		)	0			0			0			0			(4,527		)
Recoveries	0			0			0			0			0			0
Ending balance, December 31	2,230			405			2,806			2,118			443			8,002
Total credit allowance	$	22,077		$	48,499		$	44,680		$	27,720		$	19,371		$	162,347

F-21

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

	Residential Real Estate			Commercial Real Estate			Commercial			Consumer			Unallocated			Total
2011
Allowance for loan losses:
Beginning balance, January 1	$	17,307		$	124,907		$	56,951		$	14,645		$	33,246		$	247,056
Provisions	15,024			19,129			2,708			5,819			(14,180		)	28,500
Charge-offs	(18,553		)	(73,379		)	(28,369		)	(8,868		)	0			(129,169		)
Recoveries	1,419			21,065			6,756			1,831			0			31,071
Ending balance, December 31	15,197			91,722			38,046			13,427			19,066			177,458
Reserve for unfunded credit commitments:
Beginning balance, January 1	3,189			4,157			1,515			817			1,029			10,707
Provisions	2,817			(1,836		)	281			970			(732		)	1,500
Charge-offs	(2,178		)	0			0			0			0			(2,178		)
Recoveries	0			0			0			0			0			0
Ending balance, December 31	3,828			2,321			1,796			1,787			297			10,029
Total credit allowance	$	19,025		$	94,043		$	39,842		$	15,214		$	19,363		$	187,487

F-22

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

In establishing the allowance for loan losses, Sterling groups its loan portfolio into classes of loans collectively evaluated for impairment. The groups are further segregated based on internal risk ratings. Both qualitative and quantitative data are considered in determining the probability of default and loss given default for each group of loans. The probability of default and loss given default are used to calculate an estimated inherent loss rate.

If a loan is determined to be impaired, Sterling prepares an individual evaluation of the loan. The individual evaluation compares the present value of future cash flows or the fair value of the underlying collateral to the recorded investment in the loan. The results of the individual impairment evaluation would determine the need to record a charge-off or establish a specific reserve.

Sterling assigns risk rating classifications to its loans. These risk ratings are divided into the following groups:

Pass - the asset is considered of sufficient quality to preclude a Marginal rating. Pass assets generally are well protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or by the value of the asset or underlying collateral.

Marginal - the asset is susceptible to deterioration if stressed from a cash flow or earnings shock, with liquidity and leverage possibly below industry norms. The borrower may have few reserves to cover debt service, besides current income. A business generating cash flows that service the debt may be dependent on the successful reception of new products in the marketplace.

Special Mention - the asset has potential weaknesses that deserve management's close attention. If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in deterioration of the repayment prospects for the asset or of Sterling's credit position at some future date. Special Mention assets are not adversely classified and do not expose Sterling to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification.

Substandard - the asset is inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor or by the collateral pledged, if any. Assets so classified have well-defined weaknesses. They are characterized by the distinct possibility that Sterling may sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected.

Doubtful/Loss - the Doubtful asset has the weaknesses of those classified Substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses make collection in full, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values, highly questionable and improbable. An asset classified Loss is the portion of the asset that is considered uncollectible and/or of such little value that its continuance as an asset, without a charge-off or establishment of a specific reserve, is not warranted. This classification does not necessarily mean that an asset has absolutely no recovery or salvage value; but rather, it is not practical or desirable to defer writing off an asset that is no longer deemed to have financial value, even though partial recovery may be recognized in the future.

F-23

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table presents credit quality indicators for Sterling's loan portfolio grouped according to internally assigned risk ratings and performance status:

			Commercial Real Estate						Commercial
	Residential Real Estate		Investor CRE		Multifamily		Construction		Owner Occupied CRE		Commercial & Industrial		Consumer		Total		% of Total
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2013
Pass	$	1,038,460	$	602,384	$	2,058,031	$	14,591	$	785,237	$	521,711	$	794,032	$	5,814,446	78	%
Marginal	52,154		435,022		87,830		53,742		544,329		177,998		15,955		1,367,030		18	%
Special mention	7,808		44,934		9,296		1,128		61,103		17,761		6,193		148,223		2	%
Substandard	18,184		31,613		1,140		2,232		38,709		24,672		5,733		122,283		2	%
Doubtful/Loss	2,968		815		137		0		1,762		0		155		5,837		0	%
Total	$	1,119,574	$	1,114,768	$	2,156,434	$	71,693	$	1,431,140	$	742,142	$	822,068	$	7,457,819	100	%
Restructured	$	22,337	$	3,005	$	0	$	2,084	$	19,553	$	774	$	21	$	47,774	1	%
Nonaccrual	15,571		23,709		222		1,582		20,472		3,230		4,516		69,302		1	%
Nonperforming	37,908		26,714		222		3,666		40,025		4,004		4,537		117,076		2	%
Performing	1,081,666		1,088,054		2,156,212		68,027		1,391,115		738,138		817,531		7,340,743		98	%
Total	$	1,119,574	$	1,114,768	$	2,156,434	$	71,693	$	1,431,140	$	742,142	$	822,068	$	7,457,819	100	%
December 31, 2012
Pass	$	714,346	$	599,660	$	1,486,824	$	10,946	$	678,916	$	349,674	$	723,698	$	4,564,064	73	%
Marginal	53,722		472,801		74,379		42,518		454,348		146,554		17,255		1,261,577		20	%
Special mention	11,739		77,342		10,122		3,401		85,228		38,874		4,864		231,570		4	%
Substandard	26,550		67,347		8,745		17,534		53,183		5,397		8,804		187,560		3	%
Doubtful/Loss	365		2,697		219		266		4,916		0		0		8,463		0	%
Total	$	806,722	$	1,219,847	$	1,580,289	$	74,665	$	1,276,591	$	540,499	$	754,621	$	6,253,234	100	%
Restructured	$	22,968	$	4,334	$	4,094	$	8,551	$	23,152	$	810	$	307	$	64,216	1	%
Nonaccrual	20,457		46,399		4,055		8,144		31,696		3,424		6,938		121,113		2	%
Nonperforming	43,425		50,733		8,149		16,695		54,848		4,234		7,245		185,329		3	%
Performing	763,297		1,169,114		1,572,140		57,970		1,221,743		536,265		747,376		6,067,905		97	%
Total	$	806,722	$	1,219,847	$	1,580,289	$	74,665	$	1,276,591	$	540,499	$	754,621	$	6,253,234	100	%

As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, purchased credit impaired loans of $5.7 million and $2.1 million, respectively, were included in the nonaccrual loans.

F-24

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Aging by class for Sterling's loan portfolio as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 was as follows:

			Commercial Real Estate						Commercial
	Residential Real Estate		Investor CRE		Multifamily		Construction		Owner Occupied CRE		Commercial & Industrial		Consumer		Total		% of Total
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2013
30 - 59 days past due	$	2,544	$	1,575	$	378	$	0	$	6,069	$	1,066	$	5,332	$	16,964	0	%
60 - 89 days past due	1,258		1,230		0		0		1,350		1,893		1,473		7,204		0	%
90 days or more past due	15,175		12,553		222		1,582		12,086		1,997		4,030		47,645		1	%
Total past due	18,977		15,358		600		1,582		19,505		4,956		10,835		71,813		1	%
Current	1,100,597		1,099,410		2,155,834		70,111		1,411,635		737,186		811,233		7,386,006		99	%
Total Loans	$	1,119,574	$	1,114,768	$	2,156,434	$	71,693	$	1,431,140	$	742,142	$	822,068	$	7,457,819	100	%
Past due 90 days or more and accruing	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	0	%
December 31, 2012
30 - 59 days past due	$	5,800	$	10,565	$	707	$	611	$	10,543	$	2,690	$	4,028	$	34,944	1	%
60 - 89 days past due	1,576		1,042		479		0		3,300		376		1,796		8,569		0	%
90 days or more past due	20,507		34,196		3,436		8,243		20,883		1,954		4,717		93,936		2	%
Total past due	27,883		45,803		4,622		8,854		34,726		5,020		10,541		137,449		3	%
Current	778,839		1,174,044		1,575,667		65,811		1,241,865		535,479		744,080		6,115,785		97	%
Total Loans	$	806,722	$	1,219,847	$	1,580,289	$	74,665	$	1,276,591	$	540,499	$	754,621	$	6,253,234	100	%
Past due 90 days or more and accruing	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	$	0	0	%

F-25

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Sterling considers its nonperforming loans to be impaired loans. The following table summarizes impaired loans by class as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

					Book Balance
	Unpaid Principal Balance		Charge-Offs		Without Specific Reserve		With Specific Reserve		Specific Reserve
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2013
Residential real estate	$	43,910	$	6,002	$	29,984	$	7,924	$	2,968
CRE:
Investor CRE	32,908		6,194		21,732		4,982		815
Multifamily	222		0		222		0		0
Construction	12,986		9,320		3,666		0		0
Total CRE	46,116		15,514		25,620		4,982		815
Commercial:
Owner Occupied CRE	43,810		3,785		26,154		13,871		2,842
C&I	10,806		6,802		4,004		0		0
Total commercial	54,616		10,587		30,158		13,871		2,842
Consumer	4,770		233		3,953		584		155
Total	$	149,412	$	32,336	$	89,715	$	27,361	$	6,780
					Book Balance
	Unpaid Principal Balance		Charge-Offs		Without Specific Reserve		With Specific Reserve		Specific Reserve
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2012
Residential real estate	$	49,816	$	6,391	$	43,060	$	365	$	365
CRE:
Investor CRE	59,099		8,366		33,540		17,193		2,697
Multifamily	9,554		1,405		6,873		1,276		219
Construction	31,040		14,345		15,421		1,274		266
Total CRE	99,693		24,116		55,834		19,743		3,182
Commercial:
Owner Occupied CRE	61,300		6,452		42,075		12,773		4,916
C&I	16,959		12,725		4,234		0		0
Total commercial	78,259		19,177		46,309		12,773		4,916
Consumer	7,671		426		7,245		0		0
Total	$	235,439	$	50,110	$	152,448	$	32,881	$	8,463

F-26

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table presents the average book balance and interest income recognized for impaired loans by class for the periods presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013				2012				2011
	Average Book Balance		Interest Income Recognized		Average Book Balance		Interest Income Recognized		Average Book Balance		Interest Income Recognized
	(in thousands)
Residential real estate	$	40,667	$	594	$	43,164	$	819	$	67,157	$	992
Investor CRE	38,723		774		51,463		1,595		79,139		2,245
Multifamily	4,185		61		7,007		441		14,704		804
Construction	10,181		2,276		55,956		1,708		215,436		1,401
Owner Occupied CRE	47,437		1,200		64,060		2,553		75,553		2,757
C&I	4,119		187		8,057		105		12,009		460
Consumer	5,891		5		6,537		8		6,901		0
Total	$	151,203	$	5,097	$	236,244	$	7,229	$	470,899	$	8,659

F-27

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following tables present loans that were modified and recorded as TDRs during the following periods:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013
	Number of Contracts	Pre-Modification Recorded Investment		Post-Modification Recorded Investment
	(in thousands, except number of contracts)
Residential real estate	17	$	3,906	$	3,750
Investor CRE	4	1,745		1,442
Multifamily	0	0		0
Construction	0	0		0
Owner Occupied CRE	9	5,007		3,750
C&I	5	452		456
Consumer	0	0		0
Total (1)	35	$	11,110	$	9,398
	2012
Residential real estate	29	$	5,887	$	5,835
Investor CRE	1	1,302		1,302
Multifamily	3	2,955		2,945
Construction	4	10,062		9,194
Owner Occupied CRE	11	16,186		15,921
C&I	9	3,482		2,206
Consumer	3	468		472
Total (1)	60	$	40,342	$	37,875
	2011
Residential real estate	1	$	1,372	$	1,372
Investor CRE	8	3,271		3,282
Multifamily	0	0		0
Construction	3	23,701		24,348
Owner Occupied CRE	6	14,411		14,502
C&I	6	4,384		3,944
Consumer	0	0		0
Total (1)	24	$	47,139	$	47,448

⁽¹⁾ Amounts exclude specific loan loss reserves.

Substantially all TDRs are determined to be impaired prior to being restructured. As such, they are individually evaluated for impairment, unless they are considered homogeneous loans in which case they are collectively evaluated for impairment. As of December 31, 2013, Sterling had specific reserves of $629,000 on TDRs which were restructured during the previous twelve months. There were 24 loans totaling $18.8 million that were removed from TDR status during the year ended December 31, 2013, as they had met the conditions for removal by achieving twelve consecutive months of performance at market equivalent rates of interest.

F-28

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following tables show the post-modification recorded investment by class for TDRs restructured during the periods presented by the primary type of concession granted:

	Principal Deferral		Rate Reduction		Extension of Terms		Forgiveness of Principal and/or Interest		Total
	(in thousands)
Year Ended December 31, 2013
Residential Real Estate	$	73	$	2,718	$	628	$	331	$	3,750
Investor CRE	262		1,139		0		41		1,442
Multifamily	0		0		0		0		0
Construction	0		0		0		0		0
Owner CRE	1,464		1,684		124		478		3,750
C&I	450		0		6		0		456
Consumer	0		0		0		0		0
	$	2,249	$	5,541	$	758	$	850	$	9,398
Year Ended December 31, 2012
Residential Real Estate	$	407	$	5,428	$	0	$	0	$	5,835
Investor CRE	0		1,302		0		0		1,302
Multifamily	571		2,374		0		0		2,945
Construction	0		3,261		5,933		0		9,194
Owner CRE	6,219		9,393		0		309		15,921
C&I	0		1,317		183		706		2,206
Consumer	0		173		299		0		472
	$	7,197	$	23,248	$	6,415	$	1,015	$	37,875
Year Ended December 31, 2011
Residential Real Estate	$	0	$	1,372	$	0	$	0	$	1,372
Investor CRE	0		1,856		1,426		0		3,282
Multifamily	0		0		0		0		0
Construction	2,816		2,302		0		19,230		24,348
Owner CRE	10,159		0		0		4,343		14,502
C&I	576		3,368		0		0		3,944
Consumer	0		0		0		0		0
	$	13,551	$	8,898	$	1,426	$	23,573	$	47,448

Restructurings that result in the forgiveness of principal or interest are typically part of a bankruptcy settlement. There were no TDRs completed during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 that subsequently defaulted during these periods. During the year ended December 31, 2011, there was one Investor CRE TDR completed that subsequently defaulted during 2011. The recorded investment at default for this TDR was $223,000. During the years ended December 31, 2013, and 2012, there were $5.9 million, and $20.6 million of TDRs that were returned to accrual status.

F-29

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table outlines accrual status of TDRs as of the dates shown:

	December 31, 2013		December 31, 2012
	(in thousands)
TDRs on nonaccrual status	$	14,889	$	19,510
TDRs on accrual status	32,885		44,706
Total TDRs	$	47,774	$	64,216

5.  OREO:

At foreclosure, OREO is recorded at the fair value of the real estate, less the estimated costs to sell. The carrying value of OREO is periodically evaluated and, if necessary, an allowance is established to reduce the carrying value to net realizable value. Changes in OREO and the related allowance were as follows for the periods presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
OREO, gross:
Beginning balance, January 1	$	28,597		$	98,187		$	183,452
Additions	24,763			33,499			177,881
Sales	(37,626		)	(85,837		)	(241,028		)
Charge-offs	(6,565		)	(18,534		)	(27,731		)
Other changes	550			1,282			5,613
Ending balance, December 31	$	9,719		$	28,597		$	98,187
Allowance, OREO:
Beginning balance, January 1	$	3,555		$	16,277		$	21,799
Provision	4,682			5,812			22,209
Charge-offs	(6,565		)	(18,534		)	(27,731		)
Ending balance, December 31	$	1,672		$	3,555		$	16,277
OREO, net	$	8,047		$	25,042		$	81,910

F-30

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

6.  Loan Servicing:

Loans serviced for others are not included in the consolidated balance sheets. The following table presents an analysis of the changes in mortgage servicing rights and related allowance as of the dates indicated:

	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Mortgage servicing rights, gross:
Beginning balance, January 1	$	39,956		$	30,409
Originated servicing	34,504			19,727
Amortization	(13,772		)	(10,180		)
Ending balance, December 31	60,688			39,956
Allowance, mortgage servicing rights:
Beginning balance, January 1	$	7,536		$	7,307
Additions	117			3,560
Recoveries	(7,065		)	(3,331		)
Ending balance, December 31	588			7,536
Mortgage servicing rights, net	$	60,100		$	32,420

The following table presents the unpaid principal balances of loans serviced for others as of the dates indicated:

	December 31,
	2013		2012
	(in thousands)
Balance of loans serviced for others
Residential	$	5,899,019	$	4,132,570
Commercial real estate	928,214		983,782
Commercial	519,055		132,903
Total	$	7,346,288	$	5,249,255

As of December 31, 2013, the residential portion of MSR was carried at approximately 88 basis points of the unpaid principal balance, compared with at 71 basis points as of December 31, 2012. Valuation inputs used in determining the fair value of MSR included:

	December 31,
	2013		2012
Key assumptions
Weighted average prepayment speed	9.3	%	18.3	%
Weighted average discount rate	10.2	%	10.1	%

F-31

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

7.  Property and Equipment:

The components of property and equipment are as follows:

	December 31,				Estimated
	2013		2012		Useful Life
	(in thousands)
Buildings and improvements	$	71,736	$	68,129	20-40 years
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and computer software	90,267		85,481		3-10 years
Leasehold improvements	21,813		17,893		5-20 years
	183,816		171,503
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	(95,490)		(91,651)
	88,326		79,852
Land	13,284		13,998
Total property and equipment, net	$	101,610	$	93,850

8. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets:

Goodwill represents the excess of a purchase price over the net assets acquired. The following table presents a roll-forward of Sterling's goodwill:

	2013		2012
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance, January 1	$	22,577	$	0
Acquired	29,441		22,577
Ending Balance, December 31	$	52,018	$	22,577

Additions to goodwill during 2013 and 2012 have been allocated to the Community Banking segment. Goodwill is not amortized, but is reviewed for impairment at least annually. Other intangible assets at December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were comprised of core deposit intangibles from various acquisitions, and other identifiable intangibles related to First Independent's trust and wealth management business.

The following table provides details of other intangible assets:

	Gross Carrying Amount		Accumulated Amortization		Net Carrying Amount
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2013
Core deposit intangibles	$	58,707	$	44,652	$	14,055
Other	1,800		294		1,506
	$	60,507	$	44,946	$	15,561
December 31, 2012
Core deposit intangibles	$	55,420	$	38,029	$	17,391
Other	1,800		119		1,681
	$	57,220	$	38,148	$	19,072

F-32

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table provides the projected core deposit and other intangibles amortization expense for the next five years:

	Amount
	(in thousands)
Years ended:
December 31, 2014	$	3,859
December 31, 2015	2,779
December 31, 2016	1,606
December 31, 2017	1,447
December 31, 2018	1,314

9.  Deposits:

The following table sets forth the composition of Sterling's deposits at the dates indicated:

	December 31,
	2013				2012
	Amount		%		Amount		%
	(in thousands)
Noninterest bearing transaction	$	1,881,360	27	%	$	1,702,740	26	%
Interest bearing transaction	791,943		11	%	732,038		11	%
Savings and MMDA	2,700,241		38	%	2,262,369		36	%
Time deposits	1,701,446		24	%	1,738,970		27	%
Total deposits	$	7,074,990	100	%	$	6,436,117	100	%

The following presents the contractual maturities of time deposits:

	December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)
Due within 1 year	$	875,929
Due in 1 to 2 years	391,309
Due in 2 to 3 years	310,607
Due in 3 to 4 years	41,820
Due in 4 to 5 years	38,724
Due after 5 years	43,057
	$	1,701,446

The following presents the contractual maturities of time deposits with a minimum balance of $100,000:

	December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)
Three months or less	$	142,676
After three months through six months	96,075
After six months through twelve months	251,201
After twelve months	533,341
	$	1,023,293

F-33

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

10.  Advances from Federal Home Loan Bank:

Sterling Bank has a secured credit line with the FHLB of Seattle. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, this credit line represented a total borrowing capacity of $2.84 billion and $1.93 billion, of which $1.70 billion and $1.32 billion was available, respectively. The advances from FHLB are repayable as follows:

	December 31, 2013				December 31, 2012
	Amount		Weighted Average Interest Rate		Amount		Weighted Average Interest Rate
	(in thousands)
Due within 1 year	$	365,000	0.28	%	$	269,053	0.96	%
Due in 1 to 2 years	265,550		0.51		55,000		0.72
Due in 2 to 3 years	335,142		0.74		50,550		0.64
Due in 3 to 4 years	123,000		1.45		50,196		0.68
Due in 4 to 5 years	50,495		1.20		123,000		1.45
Due after 5 years	6,916		7.00		57,531		1.90
	$	1,146,103	0.68	%	$	605,330	1.08	%

Only member institutions have access to advances from the Federal Home Loan Banks. As a condition of membership, Sterling is required to hold FHLB stock. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, Sterling held $95.3 million and $97.5 million of FHLB stock, respectively, which is included as a component of other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. FHLB stock does not have a readily determinable fair value and the equity ownership rights are more limited than would be the case for ownership rights in a public company. FHLB stock is viewed as a long term investment and as a restricted investment security carried at cost. Sterling has evaluated its FHLB stock held at December 31, 2013, and determined there was no other-than-temporary impairment. During 2013, the FHLB repurchased excess stock totaling $4.0 million, compared with $6.5 million repurchased during 2012.

11.  Securities Sold Under Repurchase Agreements:

Sterling sells securities under agreements to repurchase the same or similar securities ("repurchase agreements"). Repurchase agreements are financing arrangements, which Sterling reflects on its balance sheet. The obligations to repurchase securities sold are reflected as a liability, while the securities underlying these agreements are reflected as an asset. The risk of default under such agreements is limited by the financial strength of the counterparties and the level of borrowings relative to the market value of the pledged securities. At both December 31, 2013 and 2012, under repurchase agreements, Sterling had pledged as collateral $637.1 million and $738.6 million, respectively, of investments and MBS. The average balances of repurchase agreements were $535.5 million and $959.5 million during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The maximum amount outstanding at any month end during these same periods was $587.4 million and $1.07 billion, respectively.

F-34

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

At December 31, 2013 and 2012, borrowings under repurchase agreements are contractually repayable as follows. Actual repayments may vary due to default and call provisions:

	December 31, 2013				December 31, 2012
	Amount		Weighted Average Interest Rate		Amount		Weighted Average Interest Rate
	(in thousands)
Due within 1 yr	$	31,679	0.05	%	$	86,867	1.20	%
Due within 2 yrs	50,000		2.47		0		0.00
Due within 3 yrs	0		0.00		50,000		2.47
Due within 4 yrs	400,000		4.08		0		0.00
Due within 5 yrs	50,000		2.62		400,000		4.08
Thereafter	0		0.00		50,000		2.62
	$	531,679	3.55	%	$	586,867	3.18	%

12. Junior Subordinated Debentures:

Sterling has raised regulatory capital through the formation of trust subsidiaries that issued junior subordinated debentures, and has also assumed similar obligations through mergers with other financial institutions. The trusts are business trusts in which Sterling owns all of the common equity. The proceeds from the sale of the securities were used to purchase junior subordinated debentures issued by Sterling. Sterling's obligations under the junior subordinated debentures and related documents, taken together, constitute a full and unconditional guarantee by Sterling of the trusts' obligations. The junior subordinated debentures are treated as debt of Sterling. The junior subordinated debentures mature 30 years after issuance, and are redeemable, subject to certain conditions. As of December 31, 2013, all of Sterling's junior subordinated debentures were redeemable at par, at their applicable quarterly or semiannual interest payment dates.

Details of the junior subordinated debentures are as follows:

				December 31, 2013
Subsidiary Issuer	Issue Date	Maturity Date	Next Interest Payment Date	Rate			Amount
							(in thousands)
Sterling Capital Trust IX	July 2007	Oct 2037	Jan 2014	1.65	%		$	46,392
Sterling Capital Trust VIII	Sept 2006	Dec 2036	Mar 2014	1.87			51,547
Sterling Capital Trust VII	June 2006	June 2036	Mar 2014	1.77			56,702
Lynnwood Financial Statutory Trust II	June 2005	June 2035	Mar 2014	2.04			10,310
Sterling Capital Trust VI	June 2003	Sept 2033	Mar 2014	3.44			10,310
Sterling Capital Statutory Trust V	May 2003	June 2033	Mar 2014	3.50			20,619
Sterling Capital Trust IV	May 2003	May 2033	Feb 2014	3.39			10,310
Sterling Capital Trust III	April 2003	April 2033	Jan 2014	3.49			14,433
Lynnwood Financial Statutory Trust I	Mar 2003	Mar 2033	Mar 2014	3.40			9,429
Klamath First Capital Trust I	July 2001	July 2031	Jan 2014	4.15			15,247
				2.38	%	*	$	245,299
* Weighted average rate.

F-35

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

13. Earnings Per Share:

The following table presents the computations for basic and diluted earnings per common share:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(in thousands, except shares and per share amounts)
Numerator:
Net income	$	93,641	$	385,721	$	39,133
Denominator:
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic	62,290,361		62,122,862		61,955,659
Dilutive securities outstanding	1,081,402		649,217		275,549
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted	63,371,763		62,772,079		62,231,208
Earnings per share - basic	$	1.50	$	6.21	$	0.63
Earnings per share - diluted	$	1.48	$	6.14	$	0.63
Antidilutive securities outstanding (weighted average):
Stock options	64,797		13,792		16,511
Restricted shares	1,309		230		4,728
Total antidilutive securities outstanding	66,106		14,022		21,239

Sterling's dilutive securities outstanding are comprised of warrants held by certain investors (see Note 17), and restricted stock units and stock options (see Note 16).

14. Noninterest Expense:

The following table details the components of Sterling's noninterest expense:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(in thousands)
Employee compensation and benefits	$	181,544	$	189,025	$	171,643
Occupancy and equipment	39,935		42,930		39,878
Data processing	27,984		27,091		24,171
Professional fees	16,143		16,691		13,902
Depreciation	13,093		11,690		12,184
Merger and acquisition	10,837		11,976		1,012
Advertising	7,942		12,688		10,017
OREO operations	7,389		11,829		41,500
Amortization of other intangible assets	6,799		6,780		4,851
Travel and entertainment	5,911		5,756		5,420
FDIC insurance	5,827		7,493		14,328
Other	9,908		11,304		13,484
Total noninterest expense	$	333,312	$	355,253	$	352,390

15. Income Taxes:

During 2013, Sterling recognized income tax expense of $37.9 million, reflecting a 29% effective tax rate. During 2012, an income tax benefit of $292.0 million was recognized, the result of reversing Sterling's deferred tax asset valuation allowance.

F-36

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The effective tax rate for 2013 reflects permanent differences between book income and tax income from the Borrego acquisition bargain purchase gain, as well as tax exempt municipal bond and BOLI income. As of December 31, 2013, the net deferred tax asset was $284.1 million, including $242.3 million of net operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards, compared with $292.1 million as of December 31, 2012, including $274.0 million of net operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards.

The components of income tax expense (benefit) included in the consolidated statements of operations were as follows:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Current income taxes:
Federal	$	(27	)	$	(163	)	$	(248	)
State	0			0			(27		)
Total current income taxes	(27		)	(163		)	(275		)
Deferred income taxes:
Federal	35,900			(269,968		)	248
State	1,994			(21,912		)	27
Total deferred income taxes	37,894			(291,880		)	275
Total income tax (benefit) expense	$	37,867		$	(292,043	)	$	0

F-37

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The tax effects of the principal temporary differences giving rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

	December 31,
	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
NOL carryforwards - federal	$	206,841		$	242,318
NOL carryforwards - state	19,831			21,443
Tax credits - federal	13,172			7,671
Tax credits - state	2,421			2,594
Allowance for losses on loans	54,951			61,385
Deferred compensation	13,727			10,760
Bonus accrual	4,901			4,670
Intangibles	4,591			2,284
Unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities	1,368			0
Purchase accounting premiums and discounts	3,470			2,087
Nonaccrual loans	2,543			1,931
Deferred rent	1,309			1,119
Other	1,143			3,394
Total deferred tax assets	330,268			361,656
Deferred tax liabilities:
Mortgage servicing rights	19,851			11,869
FHLB Seattle dividends	15,451			16,325
Deferred loan fees	6,799			5,867
Prepaid expenses	1,955			2,151
Fair value - loans held for sale	389			8,966
Unrealized gains on available-for-sale securities	0			22,627
ASC 740 (FIN 48) - temporary differences	0			5
Total deferred tax liabilities	44,445			67,810
Valuation allowance	(1,764		)	(1,764		)
Net deferred tax asset	$	284,059		$	292,082

As of December 31, 2013, the net operating loss carry-forwards represented the tax effect of $591.0 million of federal operating loss carry-forwards, $332.7 million of state operating loss carry-forwards, federal tax credits of $13.2 million, and state tax credits of $2.4 million. These operating loss carry-forwards and tax credits expire between 2014 and 2032.

F-38

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table summarizes the calculation of Sterling's effective tax rates for the periods presented:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
Income tax provision at the federal statutory rate	35.0	%	35.0	%	35.0	%
Tax effect of:
Deferred tax valuation allowance	0.0	%	(347.8	)%	(25.0	)%
State taxes, net of federal benefit	3.5	%	3.8	%	0.0	%
Tax-exempt interest	(1.8	)%	(2.5	)%	(6.3	)%
Bank owned life insurance	(1.7	)%	(3.2	)%	(5.8	)%
Tax credits	(2.4	)%	0.0	%	(1.6	)%
Other, net	(3.7	)%	3.2	%	3.7	%
Effective tax rate	28.9	%	(311.5	)%	0.0	%

The following is a reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax positions for the periods presented:

	2013			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Balance at January 1	$	412		$	525		$	1,586
Additions - current year tax positions	70			70			75
Additions - prior year tax positions	0			0			0
Reductions - prior year tax positions	(55		)	(183		)	(1,136		)
Balance at December 31	427			412			525
Accrued interest and penalties, net of tax effect at December 31	63			100			103
Total liability for unrecognized tax positions at December 31	$	490		$	512		$	628

Sterling's tax positions for the years 2009 through 2013 remain subject to review by federal and state taxing authorities. Realization of $490,000 of unrecognized tax liabilities would result in an unfavorable impact to the effective tax rate.

F-39

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

16. Stock Based Compensation:

The following table presents a summary of restricted stock unit activity during the periods:

	Shares		Weighted Average Grant Price
Balance, January 1, 2011	368,805		$	18.24
Granted	130,021		17.18
Vested	(163,680	)	18.50
Forfeited	(33,773	)	16.63
Outstanding, December 31, 2011	301,373		$	17.82
Balance, January 1, 2012	301,373		$	17.82
Granted	305,157		20.06
Vested	(142,727	)	19.44
Forfeited	(78,290	)	17.02
Outstanding, December 31, 2012	385,513		$	19.16
Balance, January 1, 2013	385,513		$	19.16
Granted	253,378		22.27
Vested	(171,339	)	18.14
Forfeited	(13,473	)	19.63
Outstanding, December 31, 2013	454,079		$	21.27

F-40

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table presents a summary of stock option activity during the periods:

	Shares		Weighted Average Exercise Price
Balance, January 1, 2011	18,920		$	1,357.97
Granted	0		0.00
Exercised	0		0.00
Expired	(2,600	)	1,231.98
Forfeited	(520	)	903.92
Outstanding, December 31, 2011	15,800		$	1,393.65
Exercisable, December 31, 2011	14,011		$	1,507.87
Balance, January 1, 2012	15,800		$	1,393.65
Granted	0		0.00
Exercised	0		0.00
Expired	(1,211	)	1,362.40
Forfeited	(2,190	)	1,184.58
Outstanding, December 31, 2012	12,399		$	1,433.63
Exercisable, December 31, 2012	11,996		$	1,447.69
Balance, January 1, 2013	12,399		$	1,433.63
Granted	245,847		21.69
Exercised	0		0.00
Expired	(5,524	)	1,833.61
Forfeited	(96	)	1,337.16
Outstanding, December 31, 2013	252,626		$	50.87
Exercisable, December 31, 2013	77,301		$	116.85

During the year ended December 31, 2013, the fair value of options granted were $1.6 million. The Black-Scholes option-pricing model was used in estimating the fair value of option grants. The weighted average assumptions used for 2013 grants were:

	Year Ended December 31, 2013
Expected volatility	40	%
Expected term (in years)	8.4
Expected dividend yield	3.28	%
Risk free interest rate	1.55	%

F-41

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table presents the weighted average remaining contractual life and the aggregate intrinsic value for stock options as of the dates indicated:

	Stock Options
	Outstanding			Exercisable
	Weighted Average Life	Intrinsic Value		Weighted Average Life	Intrinsic Value
	(Dollars in thousands)
December 31, 2013	9.0 years	$	3,046	8.4 years	$	889
December 31, 2012	1.3 years	0		1.2 years	0

As of December 31, 2013, a total of 4,936,148 shares remained available for grant under Sterling's 2007 and 2010 Long-Term Incentive Plans. Stock options outstanding have terms of six and 10 years. Stock based compensation expense recognized during the periods presented was as follows:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013		2012		2011
	(in thousands)
Stock options	$	692	$	43	$	268
Restricted stock	4,255		3,765		3,595
Total	$	4,947	$	3,808	$	3,863

As of December 31, 2013, unrecognized equity compensation expense totaled $7.4 million as the underlying outstanding awards had not yet been earned. This amount will be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.6 years.

17. Shareholders' Equity:

As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, Sterling had 10 million shares of preferred stock authorized, with no shares being issued and outstanding. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, there were 151,515,151 shares of common stock authorized, with one class of common stock issued and outstanding at both dates. As of December 31, 2013, 62,363,741 shares of common stock were issued and outstanding. As of December 31, 2012, 62,207,529 shares of common stock were outstanding, and 62,176,628 shares of common stock were issued. The common stock has no par value.

As of December 31, 2013, there were 2,902,566 warrants outstanding, with an exercise price of $13.13. As of December 31, 2012, there were 2,749,044 warrants outstanding, with an exercise price of $13.86. These warrants were issued as part of the 2010 recapitalization, and have an expiration date of August 26, 2017. Adjustments to the number and exercise price of these outstanding warrants occurred in 2013 and 2012 due to dividend distributions triggering an anti-dilutive provision.

18. Derivatives and Hedging:

Sterling enters into interest rate swap transactions with loan customers. The interest rate risk on these swap transactions is hedged by Sterling entering into offsetting interest rate swap agreements with various unaffiliated counterparties ("broker-dealers"). Both customer and broker-dealer related interest rate derivatives are carried at fair value, which includes consideration of counterparty credit risk.

As part of its mortgage banking activities, Sterling makes commitments to prospective borrowers on residential mortgage loan applications, which may have the interest rates locked for a period of 10 to 60 days or longer, if extended ("interest rate lock commitments"). The fair value of interest rate lock commitments presented in the table below has been adjusted to reflect the expected fallout. These interest rate lock commitments, and loans held for sale that have not been committed to investors, give rise to interest rate risk. Sterling hedges the interest rate risk arising from these mortgage banking activities by entering into forward sales agreements on MBS with third parties ("forward commitments").

F-42

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Residential mortgage loans held for sale that were not committed to investors were $129.5 million and $419.1 million as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The following table summarizes Sterling's mortgage banking operations and interest rate swaps:

	December 31, 2013
			Fair Value
	Notional		Asset		Liability
	(in thousands)
Interest rate lock commitments, net	$	99,215	$	1,740	$	0
Forward commitments	211,000		2,231		0
Interest rate swaps - broker-dealer	21,054		0		516
Interest rate swaps - customer	22,090		508		0
	December 31, 2012
			Fair Value
	Notional		Asset		Liability
	(in thousands)
Interest rate lock commitments, net	$	242,061	$	9,035	$	0
Forward commitments	531,000		0		1,881
Interest rate swaps - broker-dealer	44,846		0		2,144
Interest rate swaps - customer	36,158		2,148		0

The fair value of these derivatives is included in other assets and liabilities, respectively. Gains and losses on Sterling's mortgage banking derivative transactions are included in mortgage banking income, while gains and losses on Sterling's interest rate swap agreements are included in other noninterest income. The following table sets forth these gains and losses:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Mortgage banking operations	$	(3,351	)	$	9,816		$	(10,297	)
Other noninterest income	143			(553		)	61

Also included in mortgage banking income, was income from loan servicing of $10.3 million and $383,000 for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and a loss on loan servicing of $3.2 million for 2011.

F-43

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

19. Offsetting Assets and Liabilities:

Certain derivatives and repurchase agreements are subject to net settlement. Depending on the governing disclosure rules or elections made by management, amounts are presented gross or net on the balance sheet. The following summarizes Sterling's interest rate swaps and securities sold under repurchase agreements, all of which Sterling presents on a gross basis on its balance sheet:

							Pledged Collateral on Balance Sheet
	Amount Recognized		Amount Offset on Balance Sheet		Amount Presented on Balance Sheet		Securities		Cash		Net Position
December 31, 2013	(in thousands)
Assets
Interest rate swaps	$	508	$	0	$	508	$	0	$	0	$	508
Total	$	508	$	0	$	508	$	0	$	0	$	508
Liabilities
Securities sold under repurchase agreements	$	531,679	$	0	$	531,679	$	531,679	$	0	$	0
Interest rate swaps	516		0		516		0		516		0
Total	$	532,195	$	0	$	532,195	$	531,679	$	516	$	0
December 31, 2012
Assets
Interest rate swaps	$	2,148	$	0	$	2,148	$	0	$	0	$	2,148
Total	$	2,148	$	0	$	2,148	$	0	$	0	$	2,148
Liabilities
Securities sold under repurchase agreements	$	586,867	$	0	$	586,867	$	586,867	$	0	$	0
Interest rate swaps	2,144		0		2,144		0		2,144		0
Total	$	589,011	$	0	$	589,011	$	586,867	$	2,144	$	0

Sterling's cash, and investments and MBS included cash and securities pledged against its interest rate swap and securities sold under repurchase agreements liabilities.

20. Commitments and Contingencies:

Sterling is a 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 originate and purchase loans, provide funds under existing lines of credit, and include forward loan sale agreements to mortgage brokers. Commitments, which are disbursed subject to certain limitations, extend over various periods of time, with the majority of funds being disbursed within a twelve-month period. The undisbursed balances and other commitments as of the dates indicated are summarized as follows:

	December 31,
	2013		2012
	(in thousands)
Undisbursed loan funds - construction loans	$	29,259	$	16,499
Undisbursed lines of credit - commercial loans	571,889		524,065
Undisbursed lines of credit - consumer loans	520,844		399,691
Firm commitments to sell loans	7,502		28,485

F-44

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, Sterling had approximately $19.2 million and $17.5 million of commercial and standby letters of credit outstanding, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, Sterling collected approximately $141,000 and $180,000 in fees from these off-balance sheet arrangements.

Future minimum rental commitments as of December 31, 2013, under non-cancelable operating leases with initial or remaining terms of more than one year, are as follows:

	Amount
	(in thousands)
Years ended:
December 31, 2014	$	15,970
December 31, 2015	13,391
December 31, 2016	10,807
December 31, 2017	8,448
December 31, 2018	7,311
Thereafter	25,480
	$	81,407

Rent expense recorded for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 was $17.0 million, $16.3 million and $15.2 million, respectively.

Merger Agreement. On September 11, 2013, Sterling entered into a definitive agreement to merge (the "Merger") with and into Umpqua Holdings Corporation ("Umpqua"), with headquarters in Portland, Oregon. Immediately after the Merger, Sterling Bank will merge with and into Umpqua Bank, an Oregon state chartered bank and wholly owned subsidiary of Umpqua. Upon completion of the mergers, the combined company will operate under the Umpqua Bank name and brand. The transaction is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2014, subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions. Under the terms of the Merger, Sterling shareholders will receive 1.671 shares of Umpqua common stock and $2.18 in cash, without interest, for each share of Sterling common stock. On February 25, 2014, the shareholders of both Sterling and Umpqua approved the Merger.

Merger Litigation. Sterling, its directors and Umpqua are named as defendants in three lawsuits pending in the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County, which have been consolidated under the caption In re Sterling Financial Corp. Merger Litigation, Lead No. 13-2-03848-4. The consolidated litigation generally alleges that the directors of Sterling breached their duties to the Sterling shareholders by approving the Merger, failing to take steps to maximize shareholder value, engaging in a flawed sales process, and agreeing to deal protection provisions in the merger agreement that are alleged to unduly favor Umpqua. Umpqua is alleged to have aided and abetted the alleged breaches of duty. The consolidated litigation also alleges that the disclosures approved by the Sterling board in connection with the Merger and the vote thereon are false and misleading in various respects. As relief, the complaints seek, among other things, an injunction against consummation of the Merger, rescission of the Merger if it is effected, damages in an unspecified amount, and the payment of plaintiffs' attorneys' fees and costs. The defendants believe that the lawsuits are without merit. On January 16, 2014 the parties to the consolidated litigation entered into a memorandum of understanding to settle the consolidated litigation (such memorandum including plaintiffs' agreement to stay the consolidated litigation, except for proceedings relating to the settlement), subject to court approval and other customary conditions, including the execution of definitive documentation. The proposed settlement covers all holders of Sterling common stock (other than the defendants and their immediate families, heirs and assigns) from and including November 1, 2012 until the consummation of the Merger. The proposed settlement provides for the defendants to make certain additional disclosures, which were included in the proxy statement/prospectus that was mailed to Sterling shareholders in connection with the special meeting at which the Merger was approved. The proposed settlement does not provide for any other consideration from the defendants, including any monetary consideration (other than potentially attorneys' fees as described in the following paragraph). Sterling shareholders who are members of the proposed settlement class will, at a later date, receive written notice containing the full terms of the proposed settlement and proposed release of class claims and related matters.

In the event that the parties enter into a settlement, a hearing will be scheduled at which the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County will consider the fairness, reasonableness, and adequacy of the settlement. If the settlement is finally

F-45

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

approved by the court, it will resolve and release all claims in the consolidated litigation that were or could have been brought challenging any aspect of the proposed Merger, the merger agreement and the transactions contemplated thereby, and any disclosure made in connection therewith (but excluding dissenters' rights pursuant to Chapter 23B.13 of the WBCA), among other claims, pursuant to terms that will be disclosed to shareholders prior to final approval of the settlement. In addition, in connection with the settlement, the parties contemplate that plaintiffs' counsel will file a petition in the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County for an award of attorneys' fees and expenses to be paid by Sterling or its successor, which the defendants may oppose. Sterling or its successor will pay or cause to be paid any attorneys' fees and expenses awarded by the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County. There can be no assurance that the parties will ultimately enter into a settlement or that the Superior Court of Washington in and for Spokane County will approve the settlement even if the parties were to enter into such stipulation. In such event, the proposed settlement as contemplated by the memorandum of understanding may be terminated. Sterling management believes the proposed settlement will have no adverse material impact on Sterling.

Neither the memorandum of understanding nor the ultimate settlement is, and neither should be construed as, an admission of wrongdoing or liability by any defendant. Sterling, its directors and Umpqua continue to believe that the consolidated litigation is without merit and vigorously deny the allegations that Sterling's directors breached their fiduciary duties.

Securities Class Action Litigation. On December 11, 2009, a putative securities class action complaint, captioned City of Roseville Employees' Retirement System v. Sterling Financial Corp., et al., No. CV 09-00368-EFS, was filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Washington against Sterling and certain of its current and former officers. The Court appointed City of Roseville Employees' Retirement System as lead plaintiff on March 9, 2010. On June 18, 2010, lead plaintiff filed a consolidated complaint alleging that the defendants violated sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and SEC Rule 10b-5 by making false and misleading statements concerning our business and financial results. The consolidated complaint purported to be brought on behalf of a class of persons who purchased or otherwise acquired Sterling's stock during the period from July 23, 2008 to October 15, 2009. The consolidated complaint alleged that defendants violated Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 by failing to disclose the extent of Sterling's delinquent commercial real estate, construction and land development loans, properly record losses for impaired loans, and properly reserve for loan losses, thereby causing Sterling's stock price to be artificially inflated during the purported class period. Plaintiffs sought unspecified damages and attorneys' fees and costs. On August 30, 2010, Sterling moved to dismiss the Complaint. On March 2, 2011, after complete briefing, the court held a hearing on the motion to dismiss. On August 5, 2013, the court granted the motion to dismiss without prejudice. On October 11, 2013, the lead plaintiff filed an amended consolidated complaint. The amended consolidated complaint names the same defendants, specifies the same class period, alleges the same violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and seeks the same relief. The amended consolidated complaint contains similar allegations of improper disclosure regarding Sterling's lending practices, status of loans and reserving and accounting for loans. On January 24, 2014, Sterling moved to dismiss the amended consolidated complaint. Sterling believes the lawsuit is without merit and continues to vigorously defend against it. Failure by Sterling to obtain a favorable resolution of the claims set forth in the complaint could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Currently, a loss resulting from these claims is not considered probable or reasonably estimable in amount.

Additionally, Sterling is involved in ongoing litigation, primarily related to its normal business operations. When establishing a liability for contingent litigation losses, Sterling determines a range of potential losses for each matter that is both probable and estimable, and records the amount it considers to be the best estimate within the range. For these matters and others where an unfavorable outcome is reasonably possible but not probable, there is no estimable range of possible losses. Sterling believes that the eventual outcome from these cases will not, individually or in the aggregate, have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position.

21. Benefit Plans:

Sterling maintains an employee savings plan under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. Substantially all employees are eligible to participate in the plan subject to certain requirements. Under the plan, employees may elect to contribute up to 10% of their salary, and Sterling will make a matching contribution equal to 35% of the employee's contribution. Each employee may make a supplemental contribution of an additional 65% of their salary. All employee contributions vest immediately and, if applicable, employer contributions vest over the employee's first three years of employment. Employees have the option of investing their contributions among selected mutual funds and Sterling common stock. Sterling contributed $3.3 million during 2013, $2.9 million during 2012 and $2.8 million during 2011 to the employee savings plan.

F-46

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Sterling sponsors supplemental executive retirement plans ("SERPs"). Sterling maintains and administers additional SERPs from past acquisitions. The SERPs are nonqualified, unfunded plans that are designed to provide retirement benefits for certain current and former key employees. All amounts and benefits were established and accrued at acquisition either by previous service or change of control clauses. Sterling continues to administer these benefit plans, as necessary. Sterling had recognized $1.1 million, $1.2 million, and $1.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011 in expenses related to the SERPs. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, Sterling had $21.4 million and $19.6 million, respectively accrued for the SERPs.

In 2006, Sterling adopted a nonqualified deferred compensation plan (the "2006 DCP") which is primarily funded through employee deferral contributions. The 2006 DCP is designed to retain and attract key employees while serving as a vehicle to assist participants in deferring current compensation to a time when taxes may be at a more personally beneficial rate and aid in saving for long-term financial needs. Participation in the 2006 DCP is limited to Directors and a select group of management or highly compensated employees as determined by the plan Committee. No employer contributions have been made to the 2006 DCP. Sterling had $202,000, $172,000, and $94,000 of net expenses related to the 2006 DCP for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, Sterling had an accrued liability for the 2006 DCP of $4.4 million and $4.3 million, respectively.

During 2011, Sterling initiated an Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP"). Employees are eligible to participate in the ESPP, with share purchases discounted from 0% - 15% from the closing price of Sterling's common stock on the last day of the semiannual offering period. The applicable discount for 2013 and 2012 was 15%. During 2013 and 2012, 36,188 shares and 38,926 shares, respectively were issued under the plan, leaving 1,924,886 shares available for future purchase as of December 31, 2013.

22. Fair Value:

Fair value estimates are determined as of a specific date using quoted market prices, where available, or various assumptions and estimates. As the assumptions underlying these estimates change, the fair value of the financial instruments will change. The use of assumptions and various valuation techniques, as well as the absence of secondary markets for certain financial instruments, will likely reduce the comparability of fair value disclosures between financial institutions. Accordingly, the aggregate fair value amounts presented do not represent and should not be construed to represent the full underlying value of Sterling.

The carrying amounts and fair values of financial instruments as of the periods indicated were as follows. Other assets are comprised of FHLB stock and derivatives, while other liabilities are comprised of derivatives:

		December 31, 2013				December 31, 2012
	Level	Carrying Amount		Fair Value		Carrying Amount		Fair Value
		(in thousands)
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	1	$	545,435	$	545,435	$	331,550	$	331,550
Investments and MBS:
Available for sale	2	1,429,812		1,429,812		1,513,157		1,513,157
Held to maturity	2	165		165		206		206
Loans held for sale	2	138,952		138,952		465,983		465,983
Loans receivable, net	3	7,331,228		7,344,637		6,101,749		6,154,296
Mortgage servicing rights, net	3	60,100		75,017		32,420		32,420
Other assets (1)	2	99,756		99,756		108,642		108,642
Financial liabilities:
Non-maturity deposits	2	5,373,544		5,373,544		4,697,147		4,697,147
Deposits with stated maturities	2	1,701,446		1,717,039		1,738,970		1,768,818
Borrowings	2	1,923,081		1,845,614		1,437,491		1,457,911
Other liabilities	2	516		516		4,025		4,025

(1) Other assets includes FHLB stock. As of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, FHLB stock was carried at $95.3 million and $97.5 million, respectively.

F-47

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Companies have the option of carrying financial assets and liabilities at fair value, which can be implemented on all or individually selected financial instruments. The framework for defining and measuring fair value requires that one of three valuation methods be used to determine fair market value: the market approach, the income approach or the cost approach. To increase consistency and comparability in fair value measurements and related disclosures, the standard also creates a fair value hierarchy to prioritize the inputs to these valuation methods into the following three levels:

• Level 1 inputs are a select class of observable inputs, based upon the quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets that are accessible as of the measurement date, and are to be used whenever available.

• Level 2 inputs are other types of observable inputs, such as quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are inactive; or other inputs that are observable or can be derived from or supported by observable market data. Level 2 inputs are to be used whenever Level 1 inputs are not available.

• Level 3 inputs are substantially unobservable, reflecting the reporting entity's own assumptions regarding what market participants would assume when pricing a financial instrument. Level 3 inputs are to be used only when Level 1 and Level 2 inputs are unavailable.

The methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of certain financial instruments are as follows:

Cash and Cash Equivalents.  The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value due to the relatively short-term nature of these instruments.

Investments and MBS.  The fair value of investments and MBS are provided by a third-party pricing service. These valuations are based on market data using pricing models that vary by asset class and incorporate available current trade, bid and other market information, and for structured securities, cash flow and loan performance data. The pricing processes utilize benchmark curves, benchmarking of similar securities, sector groupings, and matrix pricing. Option adjusted spread models are also used to assess the impact of changes in interest rates and to develop prepayment scenarios. All models and processes used take into account market convention.

Loans Held for Sale.  Sterling has elected to carry residential loans held for sale at fair value. The fair values of residential loans are based on investor quotes in the secondary market, determined by the fair value of options and commitments to sell or issue mortgage loans. The fair value election was made to match changes in the value of these loans with the value of their economic hedges. Loan origination fees, costs and servicing rights, which were previously deferred on these loans, are now recognized as part of the loan value at origination. Nonresidential loans held for sale are carried at the lower of cost or market ("LOCOM") due to the frequency of these loan sale transactions, as well as the availability of market data for these loan types.

Loans Receivable.  The fair value of performing loans is estimated by discounting the cash flows using interest rates that consider the current credit and interest rate risk inherent in the loans and current economic and lending conditions and does not incorporate the exit price concept of fair value. Certain residential mortgage loans that were previously classified as held for sale are carried at fair value because at origination Sterling elected to carry these loans at fair value. The fair value of these loans is based on current market rates with various discounts applied to each individual loan. The fair value of nonperforming collateral-dependent loans is estimated based upon the value of the underlying collateral. The fair value of other nonperforming loans is estimated by discounting management's current estimate of future cash flows using a rate estimated to be commensurate with the risks involved. Changes in the various inputs in the fair value of nonperforming loans will have a significant impact on the fair value.

Mortgage Servicing Rights.  The fair value of mortgage servicing rights is estimated using a discounted cash flow model to arrive at the net present value of expected earnings from the servicing of the loans. Model inputs include prepayment speeds, market interest rates, contractual interest rates on the loans being serviced, the amount of other fee income generated and other factors. The fair value of mortgage servicing rights is impacted by any changes in these inputs.

Deposits.  The fair values of deposits subject to immediate withdrawal such as interest and noninterest bearing checking, regular savings, and money market deposit accounts, are equal to the amounts payable on demand at the reporting date. Fair values for time deposits are estimated by discounting future cash flows using interest rates currently offered on time deposits with similar remaining maturities.  

F-48

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Borrowings.  The carrying amounts of short-term borrowings under repurchase agreements, federal funds purchased, short-term FHLB advances and other short-term borrowings approximate their fair values due to the relatively short period of time between the origination of the instruments and the expected payment dates on the instruments. The fair value of long-term FHLB advances and other long-term borrowings is estimated using discounted cash flow analysis based on Sterling's current incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements with similar remaining terms.

Derivatives.  Interest rate lock commitments and forward commitments valuations are estimated using quoted market prices for similar instruments. Fair values for the interest rate swaps are based on the present value differential between the fixed interest rate payments and the floating interest rate payments as projected by the forward interest rate curve, over the term of the swap, with the recorded amount net of any credit valuation adjustments. 

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

The following table presents Sterling's financial instruments that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:

	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(in thousands)
December 31, 2013
Investment securities available for sale:
MBS	$	1,239,900	$	0	$	1,239,900	$	0
Municipal bonds	189,690		0		189,690		0
Other	222		0		222		0
Total investment securities available for sale	1,429,812		0		1,429,812		0
Loans held for sale	138,952		0		138,952		0
Loans receivable, net	26,462		0		0		26,462
Other assets - derivatives	4,479		0		4,479		0
Total assets	$	1,599,705	$	0	$	1,573,243	$	26,462
Other liabilities - derivatives	516		0		516		0
Total liabilities	$	516	$	0	$	516	$	0
December 31, 2012
Investment securities available for sale:
MBS	$	1,308,838	$	0	$	1,308,838	$	0
Municipal bonds	204,306		0		204,306		0
Other	13		0		13		0
Total investment securities available for sale	1,513,157		0		1,513,157		0
Loans held for sale	465,983		0		465,983		0
Loans receivable, net	23,177		0		0		23,177
Other assets - derivatives	11,183		0		11,183		0
Total assets	$	2,013,500	$	0	$	1,990,323	$	23,177
Contingent consideration	15,442		$	0	$	0	$	15,442
Other liabilities - derivatives	4,025		0		4,025		0
Other liabilities - derivatives	$	19,467	$	0	$	4,025	$	15,442

F-49

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

The following table presents the changes in fair value for loans receivable measured at fair value on a recurring basis using Level 3 inputs:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance	$	23,177		$	12,776
Transfers from held for sale	16,060			14,450
Principal payments and payoffs	(11,511		)	(3,515		)
Valuation adjustments	(1,264		)	(534		)
Ending balance	$	26,462		$	23,177

Differences between the aggregate fair value and the aggregate unpaid principal balance of loans receivable carried at fair value were $1.3 million, and $534,000 during the years ended December 31, 2013, and 2012, respectively, and were included in income from mortgage banking operations. Valuation adjustments were based on current market rates for comparable loans, in addition to discounts applied based on specific loan characteristics.

Contingent consideration represents the estimated liability for additional payments related to the First Independent transaction based on the application of a discounted cash flow methodology. The following table presents a roll-forward of contingent consideration.

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Beginning balance	$	15,442		$	0
Additions	0			11,700
Valuation adjustments	1,395			3,742
Payout	(16,837		)	0
Ending balance	$	0		$	15,442

Valuation adjustments are included in noninterest expense within merger and acquisition expense. The final contingent consideration payment was made in the third quarter of 2013.

Derivatives include mortgage banking interest rate lock and loan delivery commitments, and interest rate swaps. See Note 11 for a further discussion of these derivatives. The differences between the aggregate fair value and the aggregate unpaid principal balance of loans held for sale that are carried at fair value were included in earnings as follows:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Mortgage banking operations	$	(17,299	)	$	11,447

F-50

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis

Sterling may be required to measure certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis from application of LOCOM accounting or write-downs of individual assets. The following table presents the carrying value for these assets as of the dates indicated:

	December 31, 2013
	Total Carrying Value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Gains (Losses) During the Year Ended December 31, 2013
	(in thousands)
Loans	$	118,037	$	0	$	0	$	118,037	$	(15,352	)
OREO	522		0		0		522		(930		)
Mortgage servicing rights	60,100		0		0		60,100		6,948
	December 31, 2012								Losses During the Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Total Carrying Value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(in thousands)
Loans	$	172,172	$	0	$	0	$	172,172	$	(27,649	)
OREO	18,074		0		0		18,074		(1,296		)
Mortgage servicing rights	32,420		0		0		32,420		(230		)

The loans disclosed above represent the net balance of loans as of period end that have been individually evaluated for impairment during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, with the losses comprised of charge-offs and increases in the specific reserve. OREO represents the carrying value of properties for which a specific reserve was recorded during the periods presented as a result of updated appraisals subsequent to foreclosure. The appraisals may use comparable sales and income approach valuation methods and may be adjusted to reflect current market or property information. In addition to the loan and OREO losses disclosed above, charge-offs at foreclosure for properties held as of period end totaled $884,000 and $3.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Fair value adjustments to the mortgage servicing rights were mainly due to market derived assumptions associated with mortgage prepayment speeds. Sterling carries its mortgage servicing rights at LOCOM, and they are accordingly measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. Qualitative information regarding the fair value measurements for Level 3 financial instruments are as follows:

	December 31, 2013
	Method	Inputs
Loans	Income, Market, Comparable Sales, Discounted Cash Flows	External appraised values; probability weighting of broker price opinions; management assumptions regarding market trends or other relevant factors; selling costs ranging from 4.5% to 9%.
OREO	Income, Market, Comparable Sales, Discounted Cash Flows	External appraised values; probability weighting of broker price opinions; management assumptions regarding market trends or other relevant factors; selling costs ranging from 4.5% to 9%.
Mortgage servicing rights	Discounted Cash Flow	Weighted average prepayment speed: residential 9.3%, commercial 11.7%; weighted average discount rate: residential 10.2%, commercial 15.7%.

F-51

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

23. Regulatory Capital:

The following table sets forth the respective regulatory capital positions for Sterling and Sterling Bank:

	Actual				Adequately Capitalized				Well-Capitalized
	Amount		Ratio		Amount		Ratio		Amount		Ratio
	(in thousands)
As of December 31, 2013
Tier 1 leverage ratio
Sterling	$	1,138,988	11.6	%	$	393,693	4.0	%	$	492,117	5.0	%
Sterling Bank	1,112,281		11.3	%	393,604		4.0	%	492,005		5.0	%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio
Sterling	1,138,988		14.9	%	306,509		4.0	%	459,764		6.0	%
Sterling Bank	1,112,281		14.5	%	306,681		4.0	%	460,021		6.0	%
Total risk-based capital ratio
Sterling	1,235,422		16.1	%	613,018		8.0	%	766,273		10.0	%
Sterling Bank	1,208,768		15.8	%	613,361		8.0	%	766,701		10.0	%
As of December 31, 2012
Tier 1 leverage ratio
Sterling	1,115,834		12.1	%	367,909		4.0	%	459,886		5.0	%
Sterling Bank	1,100,443		12.0	%	368,053		4.0	%	460,066		5.0	%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio
Sterling	1,115,834		17.5	%	255,750		4.0	%	383,625		6.0	%
Sterling Bank	1,100,443		17.2	%	255,875		4.0	%	383,812		6.0	%
Total risk-based capital ratio
Sterling	1,196,773		18.7	%	511,499		8.0	%	639,374		10.0	%
Sterling Bank	1,181,421		18.5	%	511,749		8.0	%	639,687		10.0	%

24. Segment Information:

Sterling's operations are divided into two primary business segments that represent its core businesses:

• Community Banking - providing traditional banking services through the retail banking, private banking and commercial banking groups, including the originating and servicing of commercial real estate, owner occupied CRE and C&I loans.

• Home Loan Division - originating and selling residential real estate loans through its mortgage banking operations, on both a servicing-retained and servicing-released basis.

The Other and Eliminations caption represents holding company-level transactions and intercompany eliminations. In 2012, Sterling combined its Commercial Real Estate and Community Banking segments to improve how it made decisions and measured the segments' performance. Segment results for the 2011 comparable period have been restated to reflect current period presentation.

F-52

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

	As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2013
	Community Banking		Home Loan Division		Other and Eliminations			Total
	(in thousands)
Interest income	$	352,907	$	26,114	$	0		$	379,021
Interest expense	49,634		0		5,153			54,787
Net interest income	303,273		26,114		(5,153		)	324,234
Provision for credit losses	0		0		0			0
Noninterest income	73,380		67,670		(464		)	140,586
Noninterest expense	246,185		80,592		6,535			333,312
Income (loss) before income taxes	$	130,468	$	13,192	$	(12,152	)	$	131,508
Total assets	$	10,147,510	$	144,403	$	27,336		$	10,319,249

	As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2012
	Community Banking		Home Loan Division		Other and Eliminations			Total
	(in thousands)
Interest income	$	360,901	$	28,299	$	0		$	389,200
Interest expense	78,004		0		6,518			84,522
Net interest income	282,897		28,299		(6,518		)	304,678
Provision for credit losses	9,980		20		0			10,000
Noninterest income	46,433		108,391		(571		)	154,253
Noninterest expense	266,486		92,742		(3,975		)	355,253
Income (loss) before income taxes	$	52,864	$	43,928	$	(3,114	)	$	93,678
Total assets	$	8,754,170	$	477,127	$	5,613		$	9,236,910

	As of and for the Year Ended December 31, 2011
	Community Banking		Home Loan Division		Other and Eliminations			Total
	(in thousands)
Interest income	$	387,365	$	16,927	$	0		$	404,292
Interest expense	102,963		0		6,134			109,097
Net interest income	284,402		16,927		(6,134		)	295,195
Provision for credit losses	56,507		71		(26,578		)	30,000
Noninterest income	76,337		48,865		1,126			126,328
Noninterest expense	295,139		58,979		(1,728		)	352,390
Income (loss) before income taxes	$	9,093	$	6,742	$	23,298		$	39,133
Total assets	$	9,219,398	$	2,594	$	(28,755	)	$	9,193,237

F-53

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

25. Parent Company Only Financial Information:

The following parent company-only financial information should be read in conjunction with the other notes to consolidated financial statements. The accounting policies for the parent company-only financial statements are the same as those used in the presentation of the consolidated financial statements other than the parent company-only financial statements account for the parent company's investments in its subsidiaries under the equity method.

Parent Only Balance Sheets	December 31,
	2013		2012
Assets:	(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents	$	29,881	$	24,443
Investments in subsidiaries:
Sterling Bank	1,416,724		1,417,025
Other subsidiaries	8,271		8,307
Other assets	15,463		20,755
Total assets	$	1,470,339	$	1,470,530
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity:
Accrued expenses payable	$	7,454	$	3,072
Junior subordinated debentures	245,299		245,294
Due to affiliates	1,639		4,241
Shareholders' equity	1,215,947		1,217,923
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$	1,470,339	$	1,470,530

Parent Only Statements of Operations	Years Ended December 31,
(in thousands)	2013			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Interest income	$	216		$	268		$	300
Interest expense	6,034			6,785			6,433
Net interest expense	(5,818		)	(6,517		)	(6,133		)
Equity in net earnings of subsidiary	104,497			380,294			50,961
Noninterest expenses	11,090			5,385			5,699
Income before income taxes	87,589			368,392			39,129
Income tax benefit	6,052			17,329			4
Net income	$	93,641		$	385,721		$	39,133

F-54

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

Parent Only Statements of Cash Flows	Years Ended December 31,
	2013			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	93,641		$	385,721		$	39,133
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities	(102,676		)	(412,528		)	(42,051		)
Net cash used in operating activities	(9,035		)	(26,807		)	(2,918		)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Investments in subsidiaries, net	0			0			0
Dividends from subsidiary	72,800			52,600			0
Net cash provided by investing activities	72,800			52,600			0
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net proceeds from stock issuances	868			3,791			0
Dividends paid	(59,195		)	(49,743		)	0
Net cash used in financing activities	(58,327		)	(45,952		)	0
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	5,438			(20,159		)	(2,918		)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	24,443			44,602			47,520
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year	$	29,881		$	24,443		$	44,602

26.  Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited):

The following tables present Sterling's condensed operations on a quarterly basis for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:

	2013 Quarters Ended
	March 31			June 30			September 30			December 31
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Interest income	$	90,757		$	94,017		$	96,444		$	97,803
Interest expense	13,863			13,603			13,896			13,425
Net interest income	76,894			80,414			82,548			84,378
Provision for credit losses	0			0			0			0
Net interest income after provision	76,894			80,414			82,548			84,378
Noninterest income	37,566			42,003			31,890			29,127
Noninterest expenses	81,929			81,678			85,334			84,371
Income before income taxes	32,531			40,739			29,104			29,134
Income tax benefit	(9,853		)	(12,978		)	(8,056		)	(6,980		)
Net income	22,678			27,761			21,048			22,154
Earnings per share - basic	$	0.36		$	0.45		$	0.34		$	0.36
Earnings per share - diluted	$	0.36		$	0.44		$	0.33		$	0.35
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic	62,242,183			62,289,437			62,309,270			62,319,497
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted	63,004,784			63,107,913			63,461,018			63,613,271

F-55

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DECEMBER 31, 2013

	2012 Quarters Ended
	March 31		June 30		September 30		December 31
	(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Interest income	$	97,965	$	100,990	$	95,991	$	94,254
Interest expense	23,612		22,080		20,683		18,147
Net interest income	74,353		78,910		75,308		76,107
Provision for credit losses	4,000		4,000		2,000		0
Net interest income after provision	70,353		74,910		73,308		76,107
Noninterest income	31,587		44,741		46,698		31,227
Noninterest expenses	88,649		87,607		89,408		89,589
Income before income taxes	13,291		32,044		30,598		17,745
Income tax benefit	0		288,842		0		3,201
Net income	13,291		320,886		30,598		20,946
Earnings per share - basic	$	0.21	$	5.17	$	0.49	$	0.34
Earnings per share - diluted	$	0.21	$	5.13	$	0.49	$	0.33
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic	62,078,404		62,112,936		62,139,833		62,159,683
Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted	62,682,987		62,610,054		62,845,864		62,867,030

27.  Subsequent Event:

On February 19, 2014 Sterling entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of six depository branches located in Coos County and Douglas County, Oregon to Banner Bank ("Banner"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Banner Corporation. The branches are being divested in connection with the Merger pursuant to agreements with the United States Department of Justice and the Federal Reserve Board. Under the terms of the agreement, Sterling Bank will pay a negative premium of approximately $7.0 million for Banner to acquire approximately $226 million of deposits and $95 million of performing loans. This transaction is subject to completion of the Merger, regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions, and is expected to be completed during the second quarter of 2014.

F-56