Canadian Western Bank celebrates 25 years of success

    History defined by consistent growth and performance in all economic
    environments

    EDMONTON, March 23 /CNW/ - Canadian Western Bank (TSX: CWB) (CWB or 'the
Bank') celebrates 25 years of success in partnering with businesses and
individuals across Western Canada. CWB first became a Schedule I chartered
bank on March 22, 1984 under its original name, the Bank of Alberta.
    "The Bank was initially formed in response to opportunities brought about
by challenging economic times that prompted many competitors to reign in their
exposure in key western markets," said Larry Pollock, President and Chief
Executive Officer of CWB. "In some respects, the economic environment today is
very similar to what we faced 25 years ago. And just like then, our Bank
continues to prudently lend and grow despite challenges related to ongoing
global economic turmoil. CWB has demonstrated success in all economic
conditions over the past quarter century and I am confident we will continue
to build on this long history."
    The Bank of Alberta commenced operations under the vision of Dr. Charles
Allard and Eugene Pechet, starting with three employees working out of an
office located in one of Mr. Pechet's hotels in Edmonton, Alberta. In 1988,
the Bank of Alberta amalgamated with Western & Pacific Bank to become CWB.
Through strong organic growth and a series of acquisitions and partnerships,
CWB has grown exponentially to become Canadian Western Bank Group (CWB Group).
    "Our founders vision was to build a western-based financial institution
that focused on exceptional customer service, disciplined underwriting
practices and solid long-term growth," commented Pollock. "Twenty-five years
later, I am proud that we continue to realize this promise. Notwithstanding
our history of success, CWB is still in the early stages towards realizing its
potential. Our proven business plan, solid financial position, dedicated
employees and excellent clients have us positioned for continued success. I
could not be more excited about the promising future that lies ahead for the
CWB Group."
    Today, CWB Group is comprised of the Bank, as well as subsidiaries
Canadian Western Trust Company, Valiant Trust Company, Canadian Direct
Insurance Incorporated and Adroit Investment Management Ltd. CWB recently
reported its 83rd consecutive profitable quarter (nearly 21 years), and has
achieved 19 consecutive years of double-digit loan growth. With 36
client-focused branches and over 1,300 employees, it is now the largest
publicly traded Schedule I chartered bank headquartered in Western Canada.
After starting with $31 million of initial capital, the Bank currently has
total balance sheet assets of almost $11 billion, assets under administration
of over $4 billion and assets under management approaching $1 billion.

For further information: Kirby Hill, CFA, Assistant Vice President,
Investor and Public Relations, P: (780) 441-3770, E: kirby.hill@cwbank.com,
www.cwbankgroup.com