On March 31, 2017, Banner Corporation (“Company”) announced that the Company’s Board of Directors has renewed its authorization to repurchase up to 5% of its common stock, or 1,658.245 shares.

The news release announcing the stock repurchase plan is attached as Exhibit 99.1 and incorporated by reference herein.

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits

(d) Exhibits

The following exhibit is being furnished herewith and this list shall constitute the exhibit index:

99.1 Press Release of Banner Corporation dated March 31, 2017.

About Banner Corporation (NASDAQ:BANR)

Banner Corporation is a bank holding company. The Company is engaged in the business of planning, directing and coordinating the business activities of its subsidiaries, Banner Bank and Islanders Bank. Banner Bank is a regional bank that offers a range of commercial banking services and financial products to individuals, businesses and public sector entities in its market areas. Islanders Bank is a community bank that offers banking services to individuals, businesses and public entities located primarily in the San Juan Islands. The Banks’ primary business is that of traditional banking institutions, accepting deposits and originating loans in locations, including Washington, Oregon, California, Utah and Idaho. Banner Bank is engaged in mortgage banking operations, through the origination and sale of one to four-family residential loans. The Company’s lending activities are conducted through Banner Bank and Community Financial Corporation.

Banner Corporation (NASDAQ:BANR) Recent Trading Information

Banner Corporation (NASDAQ:BANR) closed its last trading session down -0.43 at 55.64 with 171,041 shares trading hands.