CATHAY GENERAL BANCORP Business Summary

Cathay General Bancorp (CATY) operates as the holding company for Cathay Bank, a regional financial institution that generates revenue primarily through net interest income derived from the spread between interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. The company’s primary business segments are centered on its diverse loan portfolio, which as of early 2026 is heavily weighted toward commercial real estate (52%), residential mortgages (30%), and commercial and industrial (C&I) lending (16%). Cathay also earns non-interest income through depository service fees, wealth management, and trade finance. Within the competitive landscape, CATY maintains a dominant niche as the oldest Chinese-American bank in the United States, positioning itself as a premier provider for Asian American communities and businesses. It competes directly with East West Bancorp (EWBC), Hope Bancorp (HOPE), and Ameris Bancorp (ABCB), distinguishing itself through a high-density branch network across nine U.S. states and a strategic international presence in Hong Kong and mainland China. Originally founded in 1962 by visionary George T.M. Ching and a group of community leaders including F. Chow Chan and Gerald T. Deal, the bank was established to provide financial access to underserved immigrant populations. The current leadership team is led by President and CEO Chang M. Liu, who has served in the role since 2020, and Executive Chairman Dunson K. Cheng. As of February 2026, the company is undergoing a planned leadership transition; long-time CFO Heng W. Chen is set to retire on March 1, 2026, with Deputy CFO Albert J. Wang, formerly of Webster Bank and Banc of California, designated as his successor. Other key executives include Chief Administrative Officer Thomas M. Lo and Chief Risk Officer Diana G. Deen. The board of directors recently strengthened its institutional expertise with the February 2026 appointment of veteran banking analyst Lana Chan, while long-standing director Jane Jelenko has announced her retirement effective April 2026.