FIRST BUSEY CORP NV

Conditions in the financial market and economic conditions, including conditions in the states in which it operates, generally may adversely affect Busey’s business.

Busey’s general financial performance is highly dependent upon the business environment in the markets where it operates and, in particular, the ability of borrowers to pay interest on, and repay principal of, outstanding loans, and the value of collateral securing those loans, as well as demand for loans and other products and services it offers. A favorable business environment is generally characterized by, among other factors, economic growth, efficient capital markets, low inflation, low unemployment, high business and investor confidence, and strong business earnings. Unfavorable or uncertain economic and market conditions can be caused by declines in economic growth, business activity, or investor or business confidence; limitations on the availability, or increases in the cost, of credit and capital; increases in inflation or interest rates; high unemployment; natural disasters; or a combination of these or other factors.

Given the complex factors affecting the strength of the U.S. economy, including uncertainties regarding the persistence of inflation; geopolitical developments, such as ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and resulting disruptions in the global energy market; tight labor market conditions domestically; supply chain issues both domestically and internationally; and the potential effects of the new presidential administration, including its response to the foregoing, potential imposition of new tariffs, mass deportations and changes to tax or other financial regulations, uncertainty surrounding future changes may adversely affect Busey’s operating environment and therefore its business, financial condition, results of operations, and growth prospects.

Shifts in consumer and business behavior during economic uncertainty may impact Busey’s business.

Uncertainty regarding economic conditions may result in changes in consumer and business spending, borrowing, and savings habits. Downturns in the markets where Busey’s banking operations occur could result in a decrease in demand for Busey’s products and services, an increase in loan delinquencies and defaults, high or increased levels of problem assets and foreclosures, and reduced wealth management fees resulting from lower asset values. Such conditions could adversely affect the credit quality of Busey’s loans, financial condition, and results of operations.

First Busey Corporation(BUSE) | 2024 —35

Regional economic vulnerabilities and reliance on key industries may heighten risks.

Busey currently conducts its banking operations in central and suburban Chicago, Illinois; the St. Louis, Missouri metropolitan area; central Indiana; and southwest Florida. Busey operates in markets with a significant university and healthcare presence. These industries rely heavily on state and federal funding and contracts. Timely payments by the State of Illinois to its vendors and government-sponsored entities, as well as potential federal changes to healthcare laws, could affect Busey’s primary market areas, which could in turn affect its financial condition and results of operations. A small part of Busey’s business resides in Florida, which can be affected by inclement weather.

Prolonged elevated interest rates followed by easing cycles create financial volatility.

Prolonged periods of elevated interest rates followed by an easing cycle pose significant challenges and opportunities for Busey. While an easing cycle, which is characterized by the FOMC taking action to reduce interest rates, can alleviate some funding pressures and encourage borrowing, it also introduces risks to the banking sector. A rapid shift in rates can compress net interest margins, disrupt asset-liability management, and affect the valuation of financial instruments.

After a series of rate hikes starting in March 2022, the FOMC began an easing cycle in September 2024, responding to slowing inflation and economic growth. As of December 2024, the federal funds target range was reduced to 4.25%–4.5%, marking a gradual reversal from the peak of 5.25%–5.5% in 2023. This shift reflects a softening economic environment, with the FOMC aiming to balance inflation reduction while avoiding a sharp contraction in economic activity.

Declining interest rates result in reduced income from lending and investment activities, and may drive consumers to seek higher-yielding alternatives outside of traditional banking, both of which could negatively impact Busey’s liquidity and results of operations.

While rate cuts can stimulate loan demand, they also create potential threats to the banking sector. Falling interest rates may reduce yields on loans and securities more quickly than the cost of deposits declines, narrowing margins. Deposit outflows could accelerate if customers seek higher-yielding alternatives outside traditional banking, further challenging liquidity. Lower rates can lead to prepayments on fixed-rate loans, impacting the value of interest-earning assets and requiring adjustments to portfolios.

Despite these risks, the easing cycle may present opportunities for growth. Lower rates can revitalize loan demand, particularly in key areas such as mortgages, auto loans, and small business lending, while providing some relief to borrowers under stress. However, the broader economic environment, including rising consumer debt levels, increasing delinquencies, and persistent inflation risks could still impact Busey’s financial condition, liquidity, and overall performance.