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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-K [X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 [ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 Commission file number 0-15950 FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION (Exact name of registrant as specified in its Charter) Nevada 37-1078406 (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer incorporation of organization) Identification No.) 201 West Main Street Urbana, Illinois 61801 (Address of principal executive (Zip Code) offices) (217) 384-4513 (Registrant's telephone number, including area code) Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Class A Common Stock without par value Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 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 X No --- --- Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 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. [ ] As of February 28, 1997, the aggregate market value of the Class A Common Stock held by non-affiliates was $89,195,556. Class B Common Stock is held by affiliates. The market value of the Class A Common Stock is based on the "Bid" price for such stock as reported in the National Quotation Bureau's "Pink Sheets" on that date. Affiliates include all directors, executive officers and beneficial holders owning 5% or more of the shares. Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the Registrant's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date. Class Outstanding at February 28, 1997 --------------------------------------- -------------------------------- Class A Common Stock, without par value 5,794,378 Class B Common Stock. without par value 1,125,000 DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE Portions of the definitive Proxy Statement dated March 18, 1997 for First Busey Corporation's Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held April 16, 1997 (the "1997 Proxy Statement") are incorporated by reference into Part III.

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION Form 10-K Annual Report Table of Contents PART I Page Number Item 1 Business.............................................. 3 Item 2 Properties............................................ 9 Item 3 Legal Proceedings..................................... 10 Item 4 Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders............................................... 10 PART II Item 5 Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters................................... 10 Item 6 Selected Financial Data............................... 11 Item 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations................... 13 Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data........... 27 Item 9 Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure................... 27 Item 10 Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.... 27 Item 11 Executive Compensation................................ 27 Item 12 Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management............................................ 27 Item 13 Certain Relationships and Related Transactions........ 27 PART IV Item 14 Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K........................................... 28 2

PART I ITEM 1. BUSINESS INTRODUCTION First Busey Corporation ("First Busey"), a Nevada corporation, is a multi-bank holding company located in Urbana, Illinois. As of December 31, 1996, First Busey owned one community bank subsidiary, a trust company subsidiary and a securities broker-dealer subsidiary. First Busey is engaged in commercial, retail and correspondent banking and provides trust services. Based on assets of $865 million as of December 31, 1996, First Busey, with deposits of $767 million and stockholders' equity of $73 million, is one of the largest financial institutions headquartered in east central Illinois. First Busey's largest subsidiary, Busey Bank, with continuous operations since 1868, is one of the oldest banks chartered in Illinois. First Busey's strategic plan is to continue providing commercial, retail and correspondent banking services through its banking subsidiaries, with emphasis on commercial and retail services. The strategic plan also emphasizes the operation of its banking centers autonomously, allowing them to tailor their service and products to the particular market they serve while consolidating back-room operations. First Busey intends to continue its expansion and growth in the three counties it currently serves in Illinois, Champaign, McLean and Ford County, as well as its Loan Production Offices in Springfield, Indianapolis, and Ft. Myers. First Busey engages in exploratory discussions regarding potential acquisitions from time to time; however, First Busey does not currently have any commitments to acquire or merge with any financial institution. First Busey Corporation's operations are conducted primarily through its lead bank, Busey Bank (nineteen locations), the trust company and the securities broker-dealer subsidiary. First Busey provides its subsidiaries with both financial and managerial support. Each subsidiary operates under the direction of its own Board of Directors. BUSEY BANK Busey Bank was established on January 13, 1868 and is a state-chartered bank. As of December 31, 1996, Busey Bank had total assets of $850.2 million, representing 98% of First Busey's assets, and had total revenues of $67.3 million, representing 96% of First Busey's revenues. Busey Bank provides a full range of banking services including commercial and retail banking products. The services available to its commercial and retail customers include a broad selection of depository and lending activities. In the commercial lending area, Busey Bank is designated a Small Business Administration Preferred Lender authorized to fund government guaranteed loans on an expedited basis and is also an approved lender under the Federal National Mortgage Association Program, permitting expedited origination of single- and multi-family mortgage loans. Busey Bank's other commercial lending activities consist primarily of secured loans to borrowers in many different industries. Busey Bank's retail services include consumer lending, numerous types of deposit accounts and certain specialized programs such as the Fortune Five-O Program for the mature market. Management's philosophy is to develop programs tailored to specific market segments of its customer base with particular emphasis on retail services. Busey Bank has adopted a strategy to increase other income by emphasizing fee-based services, including transaction accounts, full service brokerage, mortgage origination and other loan services generating fees. 3

Guidelines for Busey Bank for various collateral advance ratios are set forth in the Loan Review Grading System under "Collateral Position." Loan Officers are required to use the grading system in determining an acceptable collateral position on any given credit request. Collateral coverage percentages for various types of credit are set forth in the following table: Collateral Type Coverage Ratio --------------- -------------- Commercial Loans: Real Estate 125% Accounts Receivable 125% Inventory & Equipment 150% Consumer Real Estate Loans: Real Estate 125% Installment Loans: Cash or Equivalent 110% Vehicle 140% Mobile Homes 150% Other Collateral 160% All commercial loans must be supported by a completed and signed financial statement which should include a minimum of a balance sheet and income statement. Loan Officers are encouraged to require borrowers to provide annual statements prepared by a CPA firm. Where possible, an audit should be obtained, however, a review or compilation is acceptable. The Credit Analysis Department tracks delinquent financial statements and provides weekly reports to the Commercial Loan Department. In addition, the Senior Loan Committee receives a monthly report detailing delinquent financial statements for customers with large loan balances. A borrower's financial position including cash flow is monitored at least annually through an annual review process. OTHER SUBSIDIARIES First Busey Trust & Investment Co. began operation on January 1, 1987 as a successor to the combined trust departments of Busey Bank and Champaign County Bank & Trust Co., which began trust operations in 1967 and 1947, respectively. Through First Busey Trust & Investment Co., First Busey plans to expand its trust activities by increasing assets under care, currently approximating $518 million, and by developing new financial services. During 1996, revenues from trust activities were $2.7 million. Busey Bank established a full service securities broker-dealer subsidiary, First Busey Securities, Inc., on April 1, 1991. Through the offering of full service brokerage, along with various insurance and annuity products, new sources of fee income are available to Busey Bank. COMPETITION First Busey faces intense competition in all phases of its banking business from other banks and financial institutions. First Busey's subsidiary bank competes for deposits with a large number of depository institutions including commercial banks, savings and loan associations, credit unions, money market funds and other financial institutions and financial intermediaries serving Champaign County and McLean County. Principal competitive factors with respect to deposits include interest rates paid on deposits, customer service, convenience and location. First Busey's subsidiary bank competes for loans with other banks headquartered in Illinois, with loan production offices of large money center banks headquartered in other states, as well as with savings and loan associations, credit unions, finance companies, mortgage bankers, leasing companies and other institutions. Competitive factors with respect to loans include interest rates charged, customer service and responsiveness in tailoring financial products to the needs of customers. First Busey's subsidiary bank competes for loans primarily by designing their products for and directing their marketing efforts to businesses in Champaign County and McLean County which are locally owned, well- capitalized and well-managed. 4

Many of the entities that compete with First Busey's subsidiary bank are substantially larger in size than First Busey and First Busey's subsidiary bank, and many non-bank financial intermediaries are not subject to the regulatory restrictions applicable to First Busey's bank subsidiary. First Busey and its subsidiary bank have experienced an increase in the level of competition as well as the number of competitors in recent years. See "Supervision and Regulation." EMPLOYEES First Busey and its subsidiaries employed 383 employees (full-time equivalent) on December 31, 1996. Management considers its relationship with its employees to be good. SUPERVISION AND REGULATION GENERAL Financial institutions and their holding companies are extensively regulated under federal and state laws. As a result, the business, financial condition and prospects of First Busey and its subsidiary bank can be materially affected not only by management decisions and general economic conditions, but also by applicable statutes and regulations and other regulatory pronouncements and policies promulgated by regulatory agencies with jurisdiction over First Busey and its subsidiary bank, such as the Federal Reserve Board ("FRB"), Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC") and the State of Illinois Office of Banks and Real Estate. The effect of such statutes, regulations and other pronouncements and policies can be significant, cannot be predicted with a high degree of certainty and can change over time. Furthermore, such statutes, regulations and other pronouncements and policies are intended to protect the depositors and the FDIC's deposit insurance funds, not to protect stockholders. Bank holding companies and banks are subject to enforcement actions by their regulators for regulatory violations. In addition to compliance with statutory and regulatory limitations and requirements concerning financial and operating matters, regulated financial institutions such as First Busey and its subsidiary bank must file periodic and other reports and information with their regulators and are subject to examination by each of their regulators. The statutory requirements applicable to and regulatory supervision of bank holding companies and banks have increased significantly and have undergone substantial change in recent years. To a great extent, these changes are embodied in the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act ("FIRREA"), enacted in August 1989, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 ("FDICIA"), enacted in December 1991, and the regulations promulgated under FIRREA and FDICIA. Many of the regulations promulgated pursuant to FDICIA have only recently been finalized and their impact on the business, financial condition and prospects of First Busey and its subsidiary bank cannot be predicted with certainty. The following discussion and other references to and descriptions of the regulation of financial institutions contained herein constitute brief summaries thereof. This discussion is not intended to constitute and does not purport to be a complete statement of all legal restrictions and requirements applicable to First Busey and its subsidiary bank and all such descriptions are qualified in their entirety by reference to applicable statutes, regulations and other regulatory pronouncements. ILLINOIS BANKING LAW Interstate banking legislation permits adequately capitalized and managed bank holding companies to acquire control of a bank in any state. States may prohibit acquisitions of banks that have not been in existence for at least five years. Recently enacted interstate branching legislation permits banks to merge across state lines. This legislation becomes effective June 1, 1997, unless a state takes legislative action prior to that date to "opt-in" prior to the June 1, 1997 effective date or they may "opt-out" by expressly prohibiting merger transactions involving out-of-state banks, provided the legislative action is taken before June 1, 1997. The effects on First Busey of such recent changes in interstate banking and branching laws cannot be accurately predicted, but it is likely that there will be increased competition from national and regional banking firms headquartered outside of Illinois. 5

REGULATION OF BANK HOLDING COMPANIES AND THEIR NON-BANK SUBSIDIARIES First Busey is a registered bank holding company within the meaning of the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended ("BHCA"). As such, First Busey is subject to regulation, supervision and examination by the FRB. First Busey is also subject to the limitations and requirements of the Illinois Bank Holding Company Act ("IBHCA"). These limitations and requirements, however, are no more restrictive in most instances than those imposed by the BHCA and the FRB. The business and affairs of First Busey are regulated in a variety of ways, including limitations on acquiring control of other banks and bank holding companies, limitations on activities and investments, limitations on interstate acquisitions, regulatory capital requirements and limitations on payment of dividends. In addition, it is the FRB's policy that a bank holding company is expected to act as a source of financial strength to banks that it owns or controls and, as a result, the FRB could require First Busey to commit resources to support its subsidiary bank in circumstances in which First Busey might not do so absent the FRB's policy. First Busey Trust & Investment Co. is subject to regulation and examination by the State of Illinois Office of Banks and Real Estate and the FRB. The federal and state laws generally applicable to a trust company subsidiary of a bank holding company regulate, among other things, the scope of its business, investments and other activities. ACQUISITION OF BANKS AND BANK HOLDING COMPANIES The BHCA generally prohibits a bank holding company from (1) acquiring, directly or indirectly, more than 5% of the outstanding shares of any class of voting securities of a bank or bank holding company, (2) acquiring control of a bank or another bank holding company, (3) acquiring all or substantially all the assets of a bank, or (4) merging or consolidating with another bank holding company, without first obtaining FRB approval. In considering an application with respect to any such transaction, the FRB is required to consider a variety of factors, including the potential anti-competitive effects of the transaction, the financial condition and future prospects of the combining and resulting institutions, the managerial resources of the resulting institution, the convenience and needs of the communities the combined organization would serve, the record of performance of each combining organization under the Community Reinvestment Act and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and the prospective availability to the FRB of information appropriate to determine ongoing regulatory compliance with applicable banking laws. In addition, both the federal Change in Bank Control Act and the Illinois Banking Act ("IBA") impose limitations on the ability of one or more individuals or other entities to acquire control of First Busey or its subsidiary bank. The BHCA generally imposes certain limitations on extensions of credit and other transactions by and between banks that are members of the Federal Reserve System and other banks and non-bank companies in the same holding company. Under the BHCA and the FRB's regulations, a bank holding company and its subsidiaries are prohibited from engaging in certain tie- in arrangements in connection with any extension of credit, lease or sale of property or furnishing of services. The BHCA prohibits a bank holding company from acquiring control of a bank whose principal office is located outside of the state in which its principal place of business is located unless specifically authorized by applicable state law. The IBHCA permits Illinois bank holding companies to acquire control of banks in any state and permits bank holding companies whose principal place of business is in another state to acquire control of Illinois banks or bank holding companies if that state affords reciprocal rights to Illinois bank holding companies and certain other requirements are met. The restrictions described above represent limitations on expansion by First Busey and its subsidiary bank, the acquisition of control of First Busey by another company and the disposition by First Busey of all or a portion of the stock of its subsidiary bank or by its subsidiary bank of all or a substantial portion of its assets. PERMITTED NON-BANKING ACTIVITIES The BHCA generally prohibits a bank holding company from engaging in activities or acquiring or controlling, directly or indirectly, the voting securities or assets of any company engaged in any activity other than banking, managing or controlling banks and bank subsidiaries or another activity that the FRB has determined, by regulation or otherwise, to be so closely related to banking or managing or controlling banks as to be a proper incident thereto. 6

Subject to certain exceptions, before making any such acquisition or engaging in any such activity, a bank holding company must obtain the prior approval of the FRB as provided in applicable regulations. In evaluating such applications, the FRB will consider, among other relevant factors, whether permitting the bank holding company to engage in the activity in question can reasonably be expected to produce benefits to the public (such as increased convenience, competition or efficiency) that outweigh any possible adverse effects (such as undue concentration of resources, decreased or unfair competition, conflicts of interest or safety and soundness concerns). Those activities that the FRB has determined by regulation to be closely related to banking include making, acquiring and servicing loans or other extensions of credit by consumer finance companies. Notwithstanding applicable restrictions on acquisition or control of banks, bank assets, bank holding companies and companies engaged in permitted non-banking activities, a bank holding company may acquire, without the prior approval of the FRB, 5% or less of the outstanding shares of any class of voting securities of a company assuming the investment does not otherwise result in control of such company. The BHCA prohibits bank holding companies, with certain exceptions, from acquiring direct or indirect ownership of more than five percent of the voting securities of any company that is not a bank or does not engage in any of the activities described in the preceding paragraph. CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS Regulatory capital requirements applicable to all regulated financial institutions, including bank holding companies and banks, have increased significantly in recent years and further increases are possible in future periods. The FRB has adopted risk-based capital standards for bank holding companies. The articulated objectives of Congress and the FRB in establishing a risk-based method of measuring capital adequacy are (i) to make regulatory capital requirements applicable to bank holding companies more sensitive to differences in risk profiles among bank holding companies, (ii) to factor off-balance sheet liabilities into the assessment of capital adequacy, (iii) to reduce disincentives for bank holding companies to hold liquid, low risk assets and (iv) to achieve greater consistency in the evaluation of capital adequacy of major banking organizations throughout the world by conforming to the framework developed jointly by supervisory authorities from countries that are parties to the so-called "Basle Accord" adopted by such supervisory authorities in July 1988. The FRB requires bank holding companies to maintain a minimum ratio of risk-weighted capital to total risk-adjusted assets. Banking organizations, however, generally are expected to operate well above the minimum risk-based ratios. Risk-adjusted assets include a "credit equivalent amount" of off-balance sheet items, determined in accordance with conversion formulae set forth in the FRB's regulations. Each asset and off-balance sheet item, after certain adjustments, is assigned to one of four risk-weighting categories, 0%, 20%, 50% or 100%, and the risk- adjusted values are then added together to determine risk-weighted assets. A bank holding company must meet two risk-based capital standards, a "core" or "Tier 1" capital requirement and a total capital requirement. The current regulations require that a bank holding company maintain Tier 1 capital equal to 4% of risk-adjusted assets and total capital equal to 8% of risk-adjusted assets. Tier 1 capital must represent at least 50% of total capital and may consist of those items defined in applicable regulations as core capital elements. Core capital elements include common stockholders' equity; qualifying noncumulative, nonredeemable perpetual preferred stock; qualifying (i.e., up to 25% of total Tier 1 capital) cumulative, nonredeemable perpetual preferred stock; and minority interests in the equity accounts of consolidated subsidiaries. Core capital excludes goodwill and other intangible assets required to be deducted in accordance with applicable regulations. Total capital represents the sum of Tier 1 capital plus "Tier 2" capital, less certain deductions. Tier 2 or "supplementary" capital consists of allowances for loan and lease losses; perpetual preferred stock (to the extent not included in Tier 1 capital); hybrid capital instruments; perpetual debt; mandatory convertible debt securities; term subordinated debt; and intermediate term preferred stock, in each case subject to applicable regulatory limitations. The maximum amount of Tier 2 capital that may be included in an organization's qualifying total capital cannot exceed 100% of Tier 1 capital. In determining total capital, a bank holding company must deduct from the sum of Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital its investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries; reciprocal holdings of certain securities of banking organizations; and other deductions required by regulation or determined on a case-by- case basis by the appropriate supervisory authority. 7

Another capital measure, the Tier 1 leverage ratio, is defined as Tier 1 capital divided by average total assets (net of allowance for losses and goodwill). The minimum leverage ratio is 3% for banking organizations that do not anticipate significant growth and that have well-diversified risk (including no undue interest rate risk), excellent asset quality, high liquidity and good earnings. Other banking organizations are expected to have ratios of at least 4% to 5%, depending upon their particular condition and growth plans. Higher capital ratios could be required if warranted by the particular circumstances or risk profile of a given banking organization. The FRB has not advised First Busey of any specific minimum Tier 1 leverage ratio applicable to it. As of December 31, 1996, First Busey's Tier 1 and total risk-based capital ratios were 11.35% and 12.48%, respectively, and its Tier 1 leverage ratio was 7.14%. The failure of a bank holding company to meet its risk-weighted capital ratios may result in supervisory action, as well as inability to obtain approval of any regulatory applications and, potentially, increased frequency of examination. The nature and intensity of the supervisory action will depend upon the level of noncompliance. Under the IBHCA, no bank holding company may acquire control of a bank if, at the time it applies for approval or at the time the transaction is consummated, its ratio of total capital to total assets, as determined in accordance with then applicable FRB regulations, is or will be less than 7%. Risk-based capital ratios focus principally on broad categories of credit risk and do not incorporate factors that can affect the Company's financial condition, such as overall interest rate risk exposure, liquidity, funding and market risks, the quality and level of earnings, investment or loan portfolio concentrations, the quality of loans and investments, the effectiveness of loan and investment policies and management's ability to monitor and control financial and operating risks. For this reason, the overall financial health of First Busey and its subsidiary bank and the assessment of First Busey and its subsidiary bank by various regulatory agencies may differ from conclusions that might be drawn solely from the level of First Busey or its subsidiary bank's risk- based capital ratios. During 1994, the federal banking regulators announced a joint decision not to modify risk-based capital and leverage requirements for regulatory capital to reflect the impact of unrealized gains and losses for securities classified as "available for sale." This decision was made in response to the Financial Accounting Standards Board's issuance of Statement No. 115 "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities". REGULATION OF BANKS First Busey's bank subsidiary is a banking corporation organized under the IBA. As such, it is subject to regulation, supervision and examination by the State of Illinois Office of Banks and Real Estate. The deposit accounts of the bank subsidiary are insured up to applicable limits by the FDIC's Bank Insurance Fund (the "BIF"). Thus, the bank subsidiary is also subject to regulation, supervision and examination by the FDIC. In certain instances, the statutes administered by and regulations promulgated by certain of these agencies are more stringent than those of other agencies with jurisdiction. In these instances, the bank subsidiary must comply with the more stringent restrictions, prohibitions or requirements. The business and affairs of the bank subsidiary are regulated in a variety of ways. Regulations apply to, among other things, insurance of deposit accounts, capital ratios, payment of dividends, liquidity requirements, the nature and amount of the investments that the bank subsidiary may make, transactions with affiliates, community and consumer lending laws, internal policies and controls, reporting by and examination of the bank subsidiary and changes in control of the bank subsidiary. DIVIDENDS The FRB has issued a policy statement on the payment of cash dividends by bank holding companies. In the policy statement, the FRB expressed its view that a bank holding company experiencing weak earnings should not pay cash dividends which exceed its net income or which could only be funded in ways that would weaken its financial health, such as by borrowing. The FRB also may impose limitations on the payment of 8

dividends as a condition to its approval of certain applications, including applications for approval of mergers and acquisitions. First Busey uses funds derived primarily from the payment of dividends by its banking subsidiary for, among other purposes, the payment of dividends to First Busey's stockholders. Under provisions of the IBA, dividends may not be declared by banking subsidiaries except out of the bank's net profit (as defined), and unless the bank has transferred to surplus at least one-tenth of its net profits since the date of the declaration of the last preceding dividend, until the amount of its surplus is at least equal to its capital. Presently, the surplus of Busey Bank exceeds its capital. All dividends paid by First Busey's banking subsidiary are restricted by capital adequacy requirements imposed by federal regulators regarding the maintenance of the risk-weighted asset ratios and the leverage ratio (as defined by regulatory agencies). At December 31, 1996, Busey Bank had $17,299,000 available for the payment of dividends to First Busey. Sound banking practices require the maintenance of adequate levels of capital. State and federal regulatory authorities have adopted standards for the maintenance of capital by banks and adherence to such standards further limits the ability of banks to pay dividends. First Busey Trust & Investment Co., as an Illinois corporation, is permitted to make distributions to its stockholder as authorized by its Board of Directors, except that as long as it continues in a fiduciary business, it may not withdraw for purposes of payment of dividends or otherwise any portion of its capital account except with the approval of the State of Illinois Office of Banks and Real Estate. MONETARY POLICY AND ECONOMIC CONDITION The earnings of commercial banks and bank holding companies are affected not only by general economic conditions but also by the policies of various governmental regulatory authorities. In particular, the FRB influences conditions in the money and capital markets, which affect interest rates and the growth in bank credit and deposits. FRB monetary policies have had a significant effect on the operating results of commercial banks in the past and this is expected to continue in the future. The general effect, if any, of such policies upon the future business and earnings of First Busey and its subsidiary bank cannot be predicted. ITEM 2. PROPERTIES As of February 28, 1997, First Busey and its subsidiaries conduct business in twenty locations. Busey Bank has its headquarters at the Busey Bank Building, a 40,000 square foot building owned by Busey Bank. In addition to the Busey Bank Building, First Busey and/or its subsidiaries own the land and building for fifteen locations, own the building and lease the land for one location and lease five locations. Two supermarket locations, the Bloomington facility and the Busey Plaza Building are the only facilities not fully occupied by First Busey or its subsidiaries. The Busey Plaza Building, a five-story 90,000 square foot office building, is the location of the headquarters of First Busey Trust & Investment Co., with the remainder leased to unaffiliated tenants. 9

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS There are no material pending legal proceedings, other than routine litigation incidental to the business, to which First Busey or its subsidiaries are a part of or which any of their property is the subject. ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS Not applicable EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT (Provided pursuant to Instruction 3 of Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K under the Securities Act of 1933.) Name Office (year first elected as an officer) Age - ---------------------- -------------------------------------------- --- Douglas C. Mills* Chairman of the Board, President and 56 Chief Executive Officer of First Busey (1971) Edwin A. Scharlau II* Chairman of the Board of First Busey Trust & 52 Investment Co. and First Busey Securities Inc. (1967) P. David Kuhl* President and Chief Executive 47 Officer of Busey Bank (1979) * Director PART II ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS Since July 1, 1988, First Busey Class A Common Stock has been traded in the over-the-counter market and quoted in the National Quotation Bureau's "Pink Sheets." The "Pink Sheets" include approximately 14,000 thinly traded stocks. The market quotations reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail-markup, markdown or commission and may not necessarily represent actual transactions. The investment banking firm of Stephens Inc., Little Rock, Arkansas, is the principal market maker for First Busey Class A Common Stock. The last reported "Bid" price for First Busey Class A Common Stock is reported daily in the News-Gazette, a Champaign-Urbana newspaper. Prior to July 1, 1988, there was no public market for First Busey Class A Common Stock. Although, a limited trading market for shares of First Busey Class A Common Stock has developed recently, there can be no assurance that it will continue. The following table presents for the periods indicated the high and low "Bid" quotations for First Busey Class A Common Stock as reported in the National Quotation Bureau's "Pink Sheets." 1996 1995 --------------- --------------- MARKET PRICES OF COMMON STOCK High Low High Low - ----------------------------- ---- --- ---- --- First Quarter $19.17 $18.00 $17.17 $16.00 Second Quarter $21.00 $18.50 $17.67 $16.50 Third Quarter $22.00 $20.00 $18.17 $17.00 Fourth Quarter $23.75 $21.25 $18.50 $17.33 10

During 1996 and 1995, First Busey, declared cash dividends per share as follows: Class A Class B 1996 Common Stock Common Stock - --------- ------------ ------------ January $.1667 $.1515 April $.1667 $.1515 July $.1600 $.1455 October $.1600 $.1455 1995 - --------- January $.1467 $.1333 April $.1467 $.1333 July $.1467 $.1333 October $.1467 $.1333 Three-for-two stock splits on both Class A and Class B Common Stock occurred on May 7, 1996, and May 7, 1993. For a discussion of restrictions on dividends, please see the discussion of dividend restrictions under Item 1, Business, Dividends on page 9. As of February 28, 1997 there were approximately 978 holders of First Busey Class A Common Stock. ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION The following selected financial data for each of the five years in the period ended December 31, 1996, have been derived from First Busey's annual consolidated financial statements audited by McGladrey & Pullen, LLP, independent certified public accountants, whose report on the financial position as of December 31, 1996 and December 31, 1995, and the results of operations for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1996, appears elsewhere in this report. This financial data should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the related notes thereto appearing in this report. 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- BALANCE SHEET ITEMS (dollars in thousands, except per share data) - -------------------- Securities $226,350 $284,517 $210,525 $230,359 $229,574 Loans, net of unearned interest 569,500 481,772 451,051 412,905 330,137 Allowance for loan losses 6,131 5,473 5,235 5,205 4,456 Total assets 864,918 844,666 728,459 709,257 630,548 Total deposits 766,927 744,897 635,694 636,418 572,417 Long-term debt 5,000 5,000 5,000 6,645 3,338 Stockholders' equity 73,417 67,778 59,016 56,332 44,620 RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Interest income $ 61,197 $ 54,494 $ 47,126 $ 46,003 $ 45,978 Interest expense 30,033 26,515 20,212 20,363 23,067 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Net interest income 31,164 27,979 26,914 25,640 22,911 Provision for loan losses 1,100 395 240 1,125 1,000 Net income $ 9,306 $ 8,775 $ 8,238 $ 7,364 $ 5,938 11

1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- Per Share Data (1) (dollars in thousands, except per share data) - -------------------- Net income $ 1.34 $ 1.27 $ 1.19 $ 1.07 $ 0.96 Cash dividends (Class A) .65 0.59 0.53 0.53 0.46 Book value 10.72 9.95 8.64 8.13 7.23 Closing "Bid" price 22.25 18.00 16.17 14.33 10.89 OTHER INFORMATION Return on average assets 1.08% 1.15% 1.14% 1.07% .96% Return on average equity 13.40% 13.86% 14.16% 13.87% 13.91% Net interest margin (2) 4.13% 4.20% 4.30% 4.33% 4.33% Stockholders' equity to assets 8.49% 8.02% 8.10% 7.94% 7.08% (1) Per share amounts have been restated to give retroactive effect to the three-for-two stock splits which occurred May 7, 1996, and May 7, 1993. (2) Calculated as a percent of average earning assets. 12

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS The following is management's discussion and analysis of the financial condition and results of operations of First Busey Corporation and Subsidiaries (the "Corporation") for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994. It should be read in conjunction with "Business", "Selected Financial Data", the consolidated financial statements and the related notes to the consolidated financial statements and other data included in this Annual Report. All per share amounts have been restated to give retroactive effect to the three-for-two stock splits which occurred May 7, 1996, and May 7, 1993. GENERAL The Corporation's consolidated income is generated primarily by the financial services activities of its subsidiaries. Since January 1, 1982, the Corporation has acquired eleven banks and sold two; acquired six savings and loan branches and two bank branches; acquired a bank branch in an FDIC assisted acquisition of a failed bank; formed a trust company subsidiary; and acquired a marketing and communications company. All of the banks acquired during those years were accounted for using the purchase method of accounting, except for Bank of Urbana which was accounted for using the pooling of interests method. All subsidiary banks owned by the Corporation as of November 1991 were merged with Busey Bank. Under the purchase method of accounting, the earnings of the acquired subsidiaries are included in the Corporation's earnings only for the periods subsequent to acquisition. The following table illustrates the amounts of net income contributed by each subsidiary (on a pre- consolidation basis) since January 1, 1994, less purchase accounting adjustments. Subsidiary Acquired 1995 1994 1993 - - - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) Busey Bank (1) 3/20/80 $9,093 91.9% $8,664 92.8% $8,464 93.8% First Busey Trust & Investment Co. (2) -- 651 6.6% 596 6.4% 510 5.6% First Busey Securities, Inc. (3) -- 148 1.5% 76 0.8% 57 0.6% ------------------------------------------------------------------- Total $9,892 100.0% $9,336 100.0% $9,031 100.0% =================================================================== (1) City Bank of Champaign and Champaign County Bank & Trust were merged into Busey Bank as of January 1, 1987. First National Bank of Thomasboro was merged into Busey Bank as of January 1, 1988. State Bank of St. Joseph was merged into Busey Bank as of November 3, 1989. The Bank of Urbana, Citizens Bank of Tolono, and the assets of Community Bank of Mahomet subject to its liabilities were merged into Busey Bank as of November 16, 1991. Busey Bank of McLean County was merged into Busey Bank as of January 1, 1996. (2) Formed as a subsidiary of the Corporation as of January 1, 1987 as a successor to the combined trust departments of Busey Bank and Champaign County Bank & Trust. (3) Formed as a subsidiary of Busey Bank as of April 1, 1991. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS-THREE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 SUMMARY The Corporation reported net income of $9,306,000 in 1996, up 6.1% from $8,775,000 in 1995, which had increased 6.5% from $8,238,000 in 1994. Net income per share in 1996 increased 5.5% to $1.34 from $1.27 in 1995, which was a 6.7% increase from $1.19 in 1994. The main factor contributing to the increase in net income for 1996 was the increase in net interest income resulting from the large increase in loans outstanding. Contributing to the 1995 increase in net income were increases in net interest income and trust income. These increases were countered in part by the increase in other expenses. Operating earnings, which exclude security gains and gains on sales of pooled loans and the related tax expense, were $8,965,000 or $1.29 per share for 1996; $8,217,000, or $1.19 per share for 1995; and $7,479,000, or $1.08 per share for 1994. There were no material changes in average shares outstanding from 1994 to 1996 to affect earnings per share. Operating earnings, when excluding the impact of charges for assets acquired in the FDIC-assisted acquisition and the 1994 writedown of the Busey Plaza Building, were $8,965,000, or $1.29 per share for 1996; $8,217,000, or $1.19 per share for 1995; and $7,707,000 or $1.11 per share for 1994. 13

Security gains after the related tax expense were $166,000 or 1.8% of net income in 1996; $134,000 or 1.5% of net income in 1995; and $199,000 or 2.4% of net income in 1994. The Corporation's return on average assets was 1.08%, 1.15%, and 1.14% for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively, and return on average equity was 13.40%, 13.86%, and 14.16% for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. On an operating earnings basis, return on average assets was 1.04%, 1.08%, and 1.04% for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively, and return on average equity was 12.91%, 12.98%, and 12.86% for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. NET INTEREST INCOME Net interest income on a tax equivalent basis for 1996 increased 11.0% to $32,574,000 from $29,349,000 for 1995, which reflected a 4.0% increase from $28,212,000 in 1994. Net interest income increased in 1996 because of a large increase in average loans outstanding. Net interest income increased in 1995 because of an increase in average earning assets, which was partially offset by a modestly declining net interest margin. Average interest-earning assets increased to $788,158,000 in 1996 from $699,567,000 and $655,328,000 in 1995 and 1994, respectively. The growth in 1996 is primarily due to the effect of the investment in loans and securities of the assumption of $77,988,000 of deposits in December 1995. The growth in 1995 and 1994 is primarily due to increases in net loans of $32,578,000 and $38,116,000, respectively. The net interest margin was 4.13% in 1996, 4.20% in 1995 and 4.30% in 1994. The decrease in net interest margin for 1996 was due to a 6 basis point decline in the net interest spread which resulted from a decline in the yield on interest-earning assets and an increase on the weighted rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities when comparing the year ended December 31, 1996, to the prior year period. The slight decrease in net interest margin for 1995 was due to a 22 basis point reduction in the net interest spread which resulted from a greater increase in the rate paid on average interest-bearing liabilities than the increase on the yield on average interest-earning assets when comparing the year ended December 31, 1995 to the prior year period. During 1996 and 1995, interest rate trends had a significant impact on the Corporation's yields and costs. In 1996, the average yield on interest-earning assets decreased 5 basis points, while the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities increased 1 basis point. This resulted in the net interest margin declining to 4.13% for 1996 from 4.20% for 1995. The average yield on interest-earning assets increased 60 basis points in 1995 and the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities increased 82 basis points when compared to the prior year. The overall effect dropped the net interest margin to 4.20% from 4.30%, while the net interest spread dropped 22 basis points. [See "Statistical Information, Consolidated Average Balance Sheets and Interest Rates."] PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES The provision for loan losses, which is a current charge against income, represents an amount which management believes is sufficient to maintain an adequate allowance for future loan losses. In assessing the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses, management considers the size and quality of the loan portfolio measured against prevailing economic conditions and historical loan loss experience. When a determination is made by management to charge off a loan balance, such write-off is charged against the allowance for loan losses. The provision for loan losses increased to $1,100,000 in 1996 from $395,000 in 1995 and $240,000 in 1994. Net charge-offs increased to $442,000 in 1996 from $157,000 in 1995 which had decreased from $210,000 in 1994. The increase in the provision for 1996 was primarily made in order to fund the reserve for the $87,728,000 increase in loans during the year. The increased provision in 1995 was also primarily due to overall growth of the loan portfolio. OTHER INCOME Other income increased 2.5% in 1996 to $8,769,000 from $8,559,000 in 1995, which reflected a 6.9% increase from $8,006,000 in 1994. The increase in 1995 is due primarily to increases in service charges and trust income. As a percentage of total income, other income was 12.5%, 13.6.%, and 14.5% in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. Gains on the sale of securities, as a component of other income, totaled $256,000 (2.9%) in 1996, $206,000 (2.4%) in 1995, and $302,000 (3.8%) in 1994. Other income also includes gains on the sale of pooled loans, as a component of other income, of $268,000 (3.1%), $653,000 (7.6%), and $865,000 (10.8%) in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. 14

Additional components of other income were fee income and trust revenues. Service charges and other fee income increased 18.2% to $4,698,000 in 1996 from $3,973,000 in 1995, which was a 6.7% increase from $3,725,000 in 1994. The growth in fee income in 1996 and 1995 was due to increases in service charges on deposit accounts. Trust revenues increased 3.9% in 1996 and 9.4% in 1995; revenues were $2,651,000 in 1996, $2,551,000 in 1995, and $2,332,000 in 1994. Increases in trust department revenues in each year were primarily due to increases in assets under care to $518,367,000 at December 31, 1996 from $418,086,000 at December 31, 1995. Remaining other income decreased 13.4% to $996,000 in 1996 from $1,150,000 in 1995 which was an 18.6% increase from $970,000 in 1994. OTHER EXPENSES Other expenses increased 7.1% in 1996 to $25,786,000 from $24,069,000 in 1995 which reflected a 4.2% increase from $23,100,000 in 1994. As a percentage of total income, other expenses were 36.9%, 38.2%, and 41.9% in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. Employee related expenses, including salaries and wages and employee benefits, increased 10.5% in 1996 to $13,868,000 as compared to $12,546,000 in 1995, which was a 4.4% increase from $12,017,000 in 1994. As a percent of average assets, employee related expenses were 1.61%, 1.64%, and 1.67% in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. The Corporation's full-time equivalent employees were 383, 375, and 366 at December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. Net occupancy expense of bank premises and furniture and equipment expenses increased 0.8% in 1996 to $3,587,000 as compared to $3,559,000 in 1995 and $3,414,000 in 1994. The increases were primarily due to expenses associated with expanded facilities. As a percent of average assets, occupancy and equipment expenses were .42%, .46%, and .47% in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. Foreclosed property write-down and expense decreased to $150,000 in 1996 from $226,000 in 1995 which had increased from $94,000 in 1994. Other expenses were charged $350,000 in 1994 in order to write-down the carrying value of the Busey Plaza Building, a fully leased 90,000 square foot office building, to its net realizable value. Remaining other expenses increased 5.7% to $8,181,000 in 1996 from $7,738,000 in 1995 which was a 7.1% increase from $7,225,000 in 1994. The increase in 1996 was primarily due to increased amortization expenses related to acquisitions in December 1995. This increase was partially offset by reduced data processing expenses. The increase in 1995 was primarily due to increased data processing expense and uncategorized expenses, offset in part by reduced FDIC insurance assessment expense. INCOME TAXES Income tax expense in 1996 was $3,741,000 as compared to $3,299,000 in 1995 and $3,342,000 in 1994. The provision for income taxes as a percent of income before income taxes was 28.7%, 27.3%, and 28.9% for 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. The slightly lower rate in 1995 was due to the reclassification of expenses of certain acquisition costs. STATEMENTS OF CONDITION-DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND DECEMBER 31, 1995 Total assets on December 31, 1996 were $864,918,000, an increase of 2.4% from $844,666,000 on December 31, 1995. Total loans, net of unearned interest, increased 18.2% to $569,500,000 on December 31, 1996 as compared to $481,772,000 on December 31, 1995. Deposits increased 3.0% to $766,927,000 on December 31, 1996 as compared to $744,897,000 on December 31, 1995. Interest bearing deposits increased $16,339,000 or 2.4% during 1996. Non-interest bearing deposits increased $5,691,000 or 7.9% during 1996. Total stockholders' equity increased 8.3% to $73,417,000 on December 31, 1996 as compared to $67,778,000 on December 31, 1995. EARNING ASSETS The average interest-earning assets of the Corporation were 91.7%, 91.6%, and 90.9% of average total assets for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. INVESTMENT SECURITIES Effective January 1, 1994, the Corporation adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities," ("Statement No. 115"). The 15

adoption and cumulative effect of adopting Statement No. 115 had the effect of an increase of $4,446,000 on stockholders' equity, net of deferred taxes of $2,290,000 at the adoption date. The Corporation has classified certain investment securities as securities available for sale. These securities are held with the option of their disposal in the foreseeable future to meet investment objectives or for other operational needs. Securities available for sale are carried at fair value. As of December 31, 1996, the fair value of these securities was $171,243,000 and the amortized cost was $166,189,000. There were $5,682,000 of gross unrealized gains and $628,000 of gross unrealized losses for a net unrealized gain of $5,054,000. The after-tax effect ($3,285,000) of this unrealized gain has been included in stockholders' equity as called for in Statement No. 115. The decrease in market value for the debt securities in this classification was a result of rising interest rates. The fair value increase in the equity securities was primarily due to a 41.1% ($1,606,000) increase in the value of 59,200 shares of Student Loan Marketing Association (SLMA) common stock owned by the Corporation throughout the year. The composition of securities available for sale is as follows: Years ended December 31, ----------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 ----------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) U.S. Treasuries and Agencies $159,044 $213,862 $137,724 - - Equity securities 9,065 7,589 5,156 1,037 1,037 States and political subdivisions 1,253 202 - - - Other 1,881 1,363 1,138 - - ----------------------------------------------------------------- Fair value of securities available for sale $171,243 $223,016 $144,018 $1,037 $1,037 ================================================================= Fair value of securities under LOCOM1 - - - $3,052 $1,316 ================================================================= Amortized cost $166,189 $218,257 $145,293 $1,037 $1,037 ================================================================= Fair value as a percentage of amortized cost 103.04% 102.18% 99.12% 294.31% 126.90% ================================================================= (1) Lower of cost or market The maturities, fair values and weighted average yields of securities available for sale as of December 31, 1996 are: Due in 1 year or less Due after 1 year Due after 5 years Due after 10 years through 5 years through 10 years ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fair Weighted Fair Weighted Fair Weighted Fair Weighted Value Average Value Average Value Average Value Average Investment Securities(1) Yield Yield Yield Yield ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) U.S. Treasuries and Agencies $87,401 6.24% $69,734 5.62% $1,909 5.98% - - States and political subdivisions(2) 756 8.54% 497 8.65% - - - - Other 978 5.33% 596 6.12% 307 7.19% - - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total $89,135 6.25% $70,827 5.65% $2,216 6.15% - - ================================================================================================== (1) Excludes equity securities (2) On a tax-equivalent basis, assuming a federal income tax rate of 35% (the effective federal income tax rate as of December 31, 1996) The securities held to maturity portfolio consists of debt securities which provide the Corporation with a relatively stable source of income. Additionally, the investment portfolio provides a balance to interest rate and credit risk in other categories of the balance sheet while providing a vehicle for the investment of available funds and supplying securities to pledge as required collateral for certain deposits. On December 31, 1996, the fair value of securities held to maturity as a percentage of their book value was 101.3%, down slightly from 101.8% a year earlier. For securities held to maturity, the fair value of the portfolio may increase or decrease without a resulting gain or loss in the income statement. At December 31, 1996, the portfolio had gross unrealized gains of $967,000 and gross unrealized losses of $274,000 for a net unrealized gain of $693,000. The fair value decrease experienced in 1996 was primarily due to the effects of slightly higher interest rates on the bond portfolio. 16

The composition of securities held to maturity is as follows: Years ended December 31, ----------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 ----------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) U.S. Treasuries and Agencies $ 8,635 $ 13,198 $ 17,031 $174,581 $176,557 States and political subdivisions 36,607 37,043 32,957 34,507 28,907 Student Loan Marketing Ass'n common stock - - - - 68 Other 9,865 11,260 16,519 20,234 23,005 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Amortized cost of securities held to maturity $ 55,107 $ 61,501 $ 66,507 $229,322 $228,537 ================================================================= Fair value of securities held to maturity $ 55,800 $ 62,625 $ 65,386 $236,264 $238,981 ================================================================= Fair value as a percentage of book value 101.26% 101.83% 98.31% 103.03% 104.57% ================================================================= The maturities, book value and weighted average yields of securities held to maturity as of December 31, 1996 are: Due in 1 year or less Due after 1 year Due after 5 years Due after 10 years through 5 years through 10 years ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fair Weighted Fair Weighted Fair Weighted Fair Weighted Value Average Value Average Value Average Value Average Investment Securities(1) Yield Yield Yield Yield ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) U.S. Treasuries and Agencies $ 1,499 4.72% $ 6,500 4.50% $ 636 6.06% - - States and political subdivisions(2) 6,757 8.46% 12,700 8.86% 13,306 8.31% 3,844 7.60% Other 500 6.59% 5,105 6.63% 1,035 5.44% - - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total $ 8,756 7.71% $24,305 7.23% $14,977 8.02% $3,844 7.60% ================================================================================================== (1) Excludes mortgage-backed securities (2) On a tax-equivalent basis, assuming a federal income tax rate of 35% (the effective federal income tax rate as of December 31, 1996) The Corporation also uses its investment portfolio to manage its tax position. Depending upon projected levels of taxable income for the Corporation, periodic changes are made in the mix of tax-exempt and taxable securities to achieve maximum yields on a tax-equivalent basis. U.S. government and agency securities as a percentage of total securities decreased to 74.1% at December 31, 1996 from 79.8% at December 31, 1995, while obligations of state and political subdivisions (tax-exempt obligations) as a percentage of total securities increased to 16.7% at December 31, 1996 from 13.1% at December 31, 1995. LOAN PORTFOLIO Loans, before allowance for loan losses, increased 18.2% to $569,500,000 in 1996 from $481,772,000 in 1995. Non-farm non-residential real estate mortgage loans increased $33,344,000, or 34.0%, to $131,350,000 in 1996 from $98,006,000 in 1995. This increase reflects management's emphasis on commercial loans secured by mortgages. Also, 1 to 4 family residential real estate mortgage loans (not held for sale) increased $29,255,000, or 16.5%, to $206,499,000 in 1996 from $177,244,000 in 1995. It is intended that residential mortgage loan origination will generate income and develop retail and other banking relationships. The Corporation has no loans to customers engaged in oil and gas exploration or to foreign companies or governments. Commitments under standby letters of credit, unused lines of credit and other conditionally approved credit lines, totaled approximately $125,768,000 as of December 31, 1996. 17

The composition of loans is as follows: Years ended December 31, ---------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 ---------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) Commercial and financial $62,065 $55,687 $57,878 $44,419 $38,093 Agricultural 16,537 12,594 12,750 11,735 6,366 Real estate-farmland 11,468 11,162 11,769 10,777 5,871 Real estate-construction 26,184 25,566 21,759 16,228 8,004 Real estate-mortgage 413,541 334,417 303,046 276,404 235,304 Installment loans to individuals 39,707 42,353 43,854 53,483 36,727 ---------------------------------------------------------------- $569,502 $481,779 $451,056 $413,046 $330,365 Unearned interest (2) (7) (5) (141) (228) ---------------------------------------------------------------- Loans $569,500 $481,772 $451,051 $412,905 $330,137 ================================================================ The following table sets forth remaining maturities of selected loans (excluding certain real estate-farmland, real estate-mortgage loans and installment loans to individuals) at December 31, 1996. 1 Year or Less 1 to 5 Years Over 5 Years Total --------------------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) Commercial, financial and agricultural $56,421 $21,021 $1,160 $78,602 Real estate-construction 20,798 4,052 1,334 26,184 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total $77,219 $25,073 $2,494 $104,786 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest rate sensitivity of selected loans Fixed rate $11,643 $ 7,901 $2,494 $22,038 Adjustable rate 65,576 17,172 - 82,748 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total $77,219 $25,073 $2,494 $104,786 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES Management has established an allowance for loan losses which reduces the total loans outstanding by an estimate of uncollectible loans. Loans deemed uncollectible are charged against and reduce the allowance. Periodically, a provision for loan losses is charged to current expense. This provision acts to replenish the allowance for loan losses and to maintain the allowance at a level that management deems adequate. There is no precise method of predicting specific loan losses or amounts which ultimately may be charged off on segments of the loan portfolio. The determination that a loan may become uncollectible, in whole or in part, is a matter of judgment. Similarly, the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses can be determined only on a judgmental basis, after full review, including (a) consideration of economic conditions and their effect on particular industries and specific borrowers; (b) a review of borrowers' financial data, together with industry data, the competitive situation, the borrowers' management capabilities and other factors; (c) a continuing evaluation of the loan portfolio, including monitoring by lending officers and staff credit personnel of all loans which are identified as being of less than acceptable quality; (d) an in-depth appraisal, on a monthly basis, of all loans judged to present a possibility of loss (if, as a result of such monthly appraisals, the loan is judged to be not fully collectible, the carrying value of the loan is reduced to that portion considered collectible); and (e) an evaluation of the underlying collateral for secured lending, including the use of independent appraisals of real estate properties securing loans. Periodic provisions for loan losses are determined by management based upon the size and the quality of the loan portfolio measured against prevailing economic conditions and historical loan loss experience and also based on specific exposures in the portfolio. Management has instituted a formal loan review system supported by an effective credit analysis and control process. The Corporation will maintain the allowance for loan losses at a level sufficient to absorb estimated uncollectible loans and, therefore, expects to make periodic additions to the allowance for loan losses. 18

The following table shows activity affecting the allowance for loan losses: Years ended December 31, ------------------------------------------------------ 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 ------------------------------------------------------ (dollars in thousands) Allowance for loan losses: Balance at beginning of period $5,235 $5,205 $4,456 $3,833 $3,566 ------------------------------------------------------ Average loans outstanding during period $525,311 $453,915 $421,337 $366,859 $324,983 ====================================================== Allowance for loan losses: Balance at beginning of period $5,473 $5,235 $5,205 $4,456 $3,833 ------------------------------------------------------ Loans charged-off: Commercial, financial and agricultural $227 $339 $99 $397 $137 Real estate-construction 19 - - - - Real estate-mortgage 32 55 153 405 279 Installment loans to individuals 404 286 253 329 146 ------------------------------------------------------ Total charge-offs $682 $680 $505 $1,131 $562 ------------------------------------------------------ Recoveries: Commercial, financial and agricultural $43 $414 $62 $66 $74 Real estate-construction 50 - - - - Real estate-mortgage - 3 128 156 39 Installment loans to individuals 147 106 105 111 72 ------------------------------------------------------ Total recoveries $240 $523 $295 $333 $185 ------------------------------------------------------ Net loans charged-off $442 $157 $210 $798 $377 ------------------------------------------------------ Provision for loan losses $1,100 $395 $240 $1,125 $1,000 ------------------------------------------------------ Net additions (due to acquisitions) - - - 422 - ------------------------------------------------------ Balance at end of period $6,131 $5,473 $5,235 $5,205 $4,456 ====================================================== Ratios: Net charge-offs to average loans 0.08% 0.03% 0.05% 0.22% 0.12% ====================================================== Allowance for loan losses to total loans at period end 1.08% 1.14% 1.16% 1.26% 1.35% ====================================================== The following table sets forth the allowance for loan losses by loan categories as of December 31 for each of the years indicated: 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- % of % of % of % of % of Total Total Total Total Total Amount Loans Amount Loans Amount Loans Amount Loans Amount Loans --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) Commercial, financial, agri- cultural and real estate-farmland $766 15.8% $785 16.5% $1,122 18.3% $3,513 16.2% $3,099 15.2% Real estate-construction - 4.6% - 5.3% - 4.8% - 3.9% - 2.4% Real estate-mortgage 3,505 72.6% 3,476 69.4% 3,013 67.2% 779 67.0% 523 71.3% Installment loans to individuals 1,189 7.0% 1,097 8.8% 943 9.7% 785 12.9% 186 11.1% Unallocated 671 N/A 115 N/A 157 N/A 128 N/A 648 N/A --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total $6,131 100% $5,473 100% $5,235 100% $5,205 100% $4,456 100% ============================================================================================== 19

NON-PERFORMING LOANS It is management's policy to place commercial and mortgage loans on non-accrual status when interest or principal is 90 days or more past due. Such loans may continue on accrual status only if they are both well- secured and in the process of collection. The following table sets forth information concerning non-performing loans at December 31 for each of the years indicated: Years ended December 31, ----------------------------------------------- 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 ----------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) Non-accrual loans $ - $ 532 $ 636 $ 247 $ - Loans 90 days past due and still accruing 1,002 897 1,336 1,450 492 Restructured loans - - - - - ----------------------------------------------- Total non-performing loans $1,002 $1,429 $1,972 $1,697 $ 492 ----------------------------------------------- Repossessed assets $ 805 $1,380 $1,645 $1,180 $1,803 Other assets acquired in satisfaction of debts previously contracted 1 1 1 1 1 ----------------------------------------------- Total non-performing other assets $ 806 $1,381 $1,646 $1,181 $1,804 ----------------------------------------------- Total non-performing loans and non- performing other assets $1,808 $2,810 $3,618 $2,878 $2,296 =============================================== Non-performing loans to loans, before allowance for loan losses 0.18% 0.30% 0.44% 0.41% 0.15% =============================================== Non-performing loans and non-performing other assets to loans, before allowance for loan losses, and repossessed assets 0.32% 0.58% 0.80% 0.70% 0.69% =============================================== On January 1, 1995, the Corporation adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 114, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a Loan," as amended by Statement No. 118, which requires loans to be considered impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable the Corporation will not be able to collect all amounts due. The accrual of interest income on impaired loans is discontinued when there is reasonable doubt as to the borrower's ability to meet contractual payments of interest or principal. Interest income on these loans is recognized to the extent interest payments are received and the principal is considered fully collectible. For the year ended December 31, 1996, there was no interest recognized from impaired loans. The gross interest income that would have been recorded in the years ended December 31, 1994 and 1993 if the non-accrual and restructured loans had been current in accordance with their original terms was $47,000 and $22,000, respectively. The amount of interest collected on those loans that was included in interest income for the year ended December 31, 1994 was $38,000. There was no interest collected on these loans for the year ended December 31, 1993. POTENTIAL PROBLEM LOANS Potential problem loans are those loans which are not categorized as impaired, non-accrual, past due or restructured, but where current information indicates that the borrower may not be able to comply with present loan repayment terms. Management assesses the potential for loss on such loans as it would with other problem loans and has considered the effect of any potential loss in determining its provision for possible loan losses. Potential problem loans totaled $687,000 at December 31, 1996. There are no other loans identified which management believes represent or result from trends or uncertainties which management reasonably expects will materially impact future operating results, liquidity or capital resources. There are no other credits identified about which management is aware of any information which causes management to have serious doubts as to the ability of such borrower(s) to comply with the loan repayment terms. 20

DEPOSITS As indicated in the following table, average interest bearing deposits as a percentage of average total deposits have increased to 90.9% for the year ended December 31, 1996 from 90.5% for the year ended December 31, 1995. December 31, ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1996 1995 1994 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) Average % Total Average Average % Total Average Average % Total Average Balance Rate Balance Rate Balance Rate ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Non-interest bearing demand deposits $69,562 9.1% -% $63,165 9.5% -% $58,906 9.3% -% Interest bearing demand deposits 130,365 17.1% 1.62% 123,369 18.4% 1.79% 129,530 20.6% 1.82% Savings/Money Market 216,498 28.4% 3.57% 193,658 29.0% 3.49% 186,308 29.6% 2.73% Time deposits 345,726 45.4% 5.46% 288,125 43.1% 5.44% 255,154 40.5% 4.43% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total $762,151 100.0% 4.15% $668,317 100.0% 4.07% $629,898 100.0% 3.29% =========================================================================================== Certificates of deposit of $100,000 and over and other time deposits of $100,000 and over at December 31, 1996 had the following maturities (dollars in thousands): Under 3 months $25,702 3 to 6 months 8,121 6 to 12 months 19,494 Over 12 months 12,145 ----- Total $65,462 ======= SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS The following table sets forth the distribution of short-term borrowings and weighted average interest rates thereon at the end of each of the last three years. Federal funds purchased and securities sold under agreements to repurchase generally represent overnight borrowing transactions. Other short-term borrowings consist of various demand notes and notes with maturities of less than one year. 21

Federal funds purchased and securities sold under Other short-term agreements to repurchase borrowings ---------------------------------------------------- 1996 (dollars in thousands) Balance, December 31, 1996 $ 6,405 8,000 Weighted average interest rate at end of period 7.19% 7.39% Maximum outstanding at any month end $20,072 $9,250 Average daily balance $ 8,804 $8,092 Weighted average interest rate during period(1) 5.34% 7.10% 1995 Balance, December 31, 1995 $12,101 $9,573 Weighted average interest rate at end of period 5.75% 7.35% Maximum outstanding at any month end $19,648 $10,573 Average daily balance $14,269 $8,428 Weighted average interest rate during period(1) 6.23% 8.50% 1994 Balance, December 31, 1994 $20,430 $5,130 Weighted average interest rate at end of period 4.86% 8.29% Maximum outstanding at any month end $21,812 $7,330 Average daily balance $17,330 $6,398 Weighted average interest rate during period(1) 4.06% 7.25% (1) The weighted average interest rate is computed by dividing total interest for the year by the average daily balance outstanding. LIQUIDITY Liquidity is the availability of funds to meet all present and future cash flow obligations arising in the daily operations of the business at a minimal cost. These financial obligations consist of needs for funds to meet extensions of credit, deposit withdrawals and debt servicing. The sources of short-term liquidity utilized by the Corporation consist of asset maturities, sales, deposits and capital funds. Additional liquidity is provided by bank lines of credit, repurchase agreements and the ability to borrow from the Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank. The Corporation does not deal in or use brokered deposits as a source of liquidity. The Corporation purchases federal funds as a service to its correspondent banks, but does not rely upon these purchases for liquidity needs. Long-term liquidity needs will be satisfied primarily through retention of capital funds. An additional source of liquidity that can be managed for short-term and long-term needs is the Corporation's ability to securitize or package loans (primarily mortgage loans) for sale. The objective of liquidity management by the Corporation is to ensure that funds will be available to meet demand in a timely and efficient manner. Based upon the level of investment securities that reprice within 30 days and 90 days, management believes that adequate liquidity exists to meet all projected cash flow obligations. 22

The Corporation achieves a satisfactory degree of liquidity through actively managing both assets and liabilities. Asset management guides the proportion of liquid assets to total assets, while liability management monitors future funding requirements and prices liabilities accordingly. Average liquid assets are shown in the table below: LIQUID ASSETS Years Ended December 31, ----------------------------- Average Balances 1996 1995 1994 ----------------------------- (dollars in thousands) Federal funds sold $8,159 $15,000 $5,651 ============================= Percentage of average total assets 0.95% 1.96% 0.78% ============================= RATE SENSITIVE ASSETS AND LIABILITIES Interest rate sensitivity is a measure of the volatility of the net interest margin as a consequence of changes in market rates. The rate- sensitivity chart shows the interval of time in which given volumes of rate-sensitive earning assets and rate-sensitive interest bearing liabilities would be responsive to changes in market interest rates based on their contractual maturities or terms for repricing. It is however, only a static, single-day depiction of the Corporation's rate sensitivity structure, which can be adjusted in response to changes in forecasted interest rates. The following table sets forth the static rate-sensitivity analysis of the Corporation as of December 31, 1996: Rate Sensitive Within --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1-30 Days 31-90 Days 91-180 Days 181 Days-1 Yr Over 1 Year Total --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Investment securities U.S. Treasuries and Agencies $19,184 $27,719 $20,945 $27,047 $72,784 $167,679 States and political subdivisions 1,105 200 557 5,652 30,346 37,860 Other securities 2,214 108 87 671 17,731 20,811 Loans (net of unearned interest) 166,899 22,817 47,268 57,996 274,520 569,500 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total rate-sensitive assets $189,402 $50,844 $68,857 $91,366 $395,381 $795,850 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest bearing transaction deposits $129,992 - - - - $129,992 Savings deposits 84,063 - - - - 84,063 Money market deposits 127,933 - - - - 127,933 Time deposits 40,498 53,434 62,164 86,363 104,403 346,862 Short-term borrowings: Federal funds purchased & repurchase agreements 6,400 - - - 5 6,405 Other 8,000 - - - - 8,000 Long-term debt - - - - 5,000 5,000 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total rate-sensitive liabilities $396,886 $53,434 $62,164 $86,363 $109,408 $708,255 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rate-sensitive assets less rate- sensitive liabilities $(207,484) $(2,590) $ 6,693 $5,003 $285,973 $ 87,595 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cumulative Gap $(207,484) $(210,074) $(203,381) $(198,378) $ 87,595 ==================================================================== Cumulative amounts as a percentage of total rate-sensitive assets -26.07% -26.40% -25.56% -24.93% 11.01% ==================================================================== Cumulative Ratio 0.48X 0.53X 0.60X 0.67X 1.12X ==================================================================== 23

The foregoing table shows a negative (liability sensitive) cumulative unadjusted gap of $207 million in the 1-30 day repricing category. The gap from 31 to 90 days is nearly matched, and beyond 90 days becomes less liability sensitive as rate-sensitive assets that reprice beyond 91 days gradually become greater in volume than rate-sensitive liabilities that are subject to repricing in the same respective time periods. The composition of the gap structure at December 31, 1996 will benefit the Corporation more if interest rates fall during the next 30 days by allowing the net interest margin to grow as liability rates would reprice more quickly than rates on rate-sensitive assets. CAPITAL RESOURCES Other than from the issuance of common stock, the Corporation's primary source of capital is net income retained by the Corporation. During the year ended December 31, 1996, the Corporation earned $9,306,000 and paid dividends of $4,378,000 to stockholders, resulting in a retention of current earnings of $4,928,000. The Federal Reserve Board uses capital adequacy guidelines in its examination and regulation of bank holding companies and their subsidiary banks. Risk-based capital ratios are established by allocating assets and certain off-balance sheet commitments into four risk-weighted categories. These balances are then multiplied by the factor appropriate for that risk- weighted category. The guidelines require bank holding companies and their subsidiary banks to maintain a total capital to total risk-weighted asset ratio of not less than 8.00%, of which at least one half must be Tier 1 capital, and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of not less than 3.00%. As of December 31, 1996, the Corporation had a total capital to total risk- weighted asset ratio of 12.48%, a Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted asset ratio of 11.35% and a Tier 1 leverage ratio of 7.14%; the Corporation's bank subsidiary, Busey Bank, had ratios of 12.28%, 11.12%, and 6.93%, respectively. As these ratios show, the Corporation and its bank subsidiary significantly exceed the regulatory capital guidelines. REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS It is management's belief that there are no current recommendations by the regulatory authorities which if implemented, would have a material effect on the Corporation's liquidity, capital resources, or operations. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS The Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Statement No. 125, "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishements of Liabilities," in June, 1996. This statement is effective for transactions after December 31, 1996, except for transactions related to secured borrowings and collateral for which the effective date is December 31, 1997. The effect on the Corporation's financial position and results of operations will not be material. EFFECTS OF INFLATION The effect of inflation on a financial institution differs significantly from the effect on an industrial company. While a financial institution's operating expenses, particularly salary and employee benefits, are affected by general inflation, the asset and liability structure of a financial institution consists largely of monetary items. Monetary items, such as cash, loans and deposits, are those assets and liabilities which are or will be converted into a fixed number of dollars regardless of changes in prices. As a result, changes in interest rates have a more significant impact on a financial institution's performance than does general inflation. For additional information regarding interest rates and changes in net interest income see "Selected Statistical Information." SELECTED STATISTICAL INFORMATION The following tables contain information concerning the consolidated financial condition and operations of the Corporation for the periods, or as of the dates, shown. All average information is provided on a daily average basis. The following table shows the consolidated average balance sheets, detailing the major categories of assets and liabilities, the interest income earned on interest-earning assets, the interest expense paid for interest-bearing liabilities, and the related interest rates: 24

Consolidated Average Balance Sheets and Interest Rates Years Ended December 31, 1996 1995 1994 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Average Income/ Yield/ Average Income/ Yield/ Average Income/ Yield/ Balance Expense Rate Balance Expense Rate Balance Expense Rate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) Total interest-earning assets(1) $699,567 $55,864 7.99% $655,328 $48,424 7.39% $622,453 $47,295 7.60% ====================================================================================== ASSETS Federal funds sold $ 8,159 $ 441 5.40% $ 15,000 $ 884 5.89% $ 5,651 $ 222 3.93% Investment securities: U.S. Treasuries and Agencies 193,295 11,427 5.91% 172,960 10,452 6.04% 171,204 9,945 5.81% States and political subdivisions1 38,794 3,248 8.37% 36,668 3,126 8.52% 34,405 2,887 8.39% Other securities 22,599 1,270 5.62% 21,024 1,361 6.47% 22,731 1,454 6.40% Loans (net of unearned discount)(1,2) 525,311 46,221 8.80% 453,915 40,041 8.82% 421,337 33,916 8.05% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total interest-earning assets1 $788,158 $62,607 7.94% $699,567 $55,864 7.99% $655,328 $48,424 7.39% ====================================================================================== Cash and due from banks 34,784 30,694 31,823 Premises and equipment 21,555 21,501 22,173 Allowance for loan losses (5,619) (5,421) (5,340) Other assets 20,392 17,604 17,065 -------- -------- -------- Total assets $859,270 $763,945 $721,049 ======== ======== ======== Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Interest bearing transaction deposits $130,365 $ 2,105 1.62% $123,369 $2,209 1.79% $129,530 $2,357 1.82% Savings deposits 80,516 2,554 3.17% 57,073 1,659 2.91% 48,814 1,068 2.19% Money market deposits 135,982 5,167 3.80% 136,585 5,095 3.73% 137,494 4,019 2.92% Time deposits 345,726 18,884 5.46% 288,125 15,670 5.44% 255,154 11,316 4.43% Short-term borrowings: Federal funds purchased and repurchase agreements 8,804 470 5.34% 14,269 889 6.23% 17,330 703 4.06% Other 8,092 575 7.10% 8,428 716 8.50% 6,398 463 7.25% Long-term debt 5,000 278 5.55% 5,000 277 5.54% 5,127 286 5.56% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total interest-bearing liabilities $714,485 $30,033 4.20% $632,849 $26,515 4.19% $599,847 $20,212 3.37% ====================================================================================== Net interest spread 3.74% 3.80% 4.02% ======== ======= ====== Demand deposits 69,562 63,165 58,906 Other liabilities 5,798 4,630 4,133 Stockholders' equity 69,425 63,301 58,163 -------- -------- -------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $859,270 $763,945 $721,049 ======== ======== ======== Interest income/earning assets(1) $788,158 $62,607 7.94% $699,567 $55,864 7.99% $655,328 $48,424 7.39% Interest expense/earning assets 788,158 30,033 3.81% 699,567 26,515 3.79% 655,328 20,212 3.09% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Net interest margin(1) $32,574 4.13% $29,349 4.20% $28,212 4.30% ==================== =================== ================= (1) On a tax equivalent basis, assuming a federal income tax rate of 35% (2) Non-accrual loans have been included in average loans, net of unearned discount 25

Changes In Net Interest Income Years Ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 --------------------------------------------------------------------- Year 1996 vs 1995 Change due to(1) Year 1995 vs 1994 Change due to(1) --------------------------------------------------------------------- Average Average Total Average Average Total Volume Yield/Rate Change Volume Yield/Rate Change --------------------------------------------------------------------- (dollars in thousands) Increase (decrease) in interest income: Federal funds sold $ (375) $ (68) $ (443) $ 508 $ 154 $ 662 Investment securities: U.S. Treasuries and Agencies 1,196 (221) 975 103 404 507 States and political subdivisions(2) 177 (55) 122 192 47 239 Other securities 119 (210) (91) (110) 17 (93) Loans(2) 6,282 (102) 6,180 2,734 3,391 6,125 --------------------------------------------------------------------- Change in interest income(2) $7,399 $ (656) $6,743 $3,427 $4,013 $7,440 ===================================================================== Increase (decrease) in interest expense: Interest bearing transaction deposits $ 142 $ (246) $ (104) $ (111) $ (37) $ (148) Savings deposits 732 163 895 201 390 591 Money market deposits (22) 94 72 (26) 1,102 1,076 Time deposits 3,146 68 3,214 1,582 2,772 4,354 Federal funds purchased and repurchase agreements (305) (114) (419) (92) 278 186 Other (28) (113) (141) 164 89 253 Long-term debt - 1 1 (7) (2) (9) --------------------------------------------------------------------- Change in interest expense $3,665 $ (147) $3,518 $1,711 $4,592 $6,303 --------------------------------------------------------------------- Increase (decrease) in net interest income(2) $3,734 $ (509) $3,225 $1,716 $ (579) $1,137 ===================================================================== Percentage increase in net interest income over prior period 11.0% 4.0% ========= ========= (1) Changes due to both rate and volume have been allocated proportionally (2) On a tax equivalent basis, assuming a federal income tax rate of 35% 26

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA The financial statements are presented beginning on page 32 ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE. Not applicable. PART III ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT (a) Directors of the Registrant. Incorporated by reference is the information set forth on pages 5, 6 and 7 of the 1997 Proxy Statement. (b) Executive Officers of the Registrant. Incorporated by reference is the information set forth in Part I of this Form 10-K. ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION Incorporated by reference is the information set forth on pages 10 through 12 of the 1997 Proxy Statement (except the information set forth in the sections "Report of the Compensation Committee on Executive Compensation" and "Company Performance"). ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT Incorporated by reference is the information set forth on pages 8 through 10 of the 1997 Proxy Statement. ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS Incorporated by reference is the information set forth on page 14 of the 1997 Proxy Statement. 27

PART IV ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K EXHIBITS Exhibit Sequentially Number Description of Exhibit Numbered Page - ------ ---------------------- ------------- 3.1 Certificate of Incorporation of First Busey Corporation (filed as Appendix B to First Busey's definitive proxy statement filed with the Commission on April 5, 1993 (Commission File No. 0-15950), and incorporated herein by reference) 3.2 By-Laws of First Busey Corporation (filed as Appendix C to First Busey's definitive proxy statement filed with the Commission on April 5, 1993 (Commission File No. 0-15950), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.1 First Busey Corporation 1993 Restricted Stock Award Plan (filed as Appendix E to First Busey's definitive proxy statement filed with the Commission on April 5, 1993 (Commission File No. 0-15950), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.2 First Busey Corporation 1986 Stock Option Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.2 to First Busey's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 33-13973), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.3 First Busey Corporation Profit Sharing Plan and Trust (filed as Exhibit 10.3 to First Busey's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 33-13973), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.4 Mortgage on County Plaza Building (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to First Busey's Registration Statement on Form S- 1 (Registration No. 33-13973), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.5 Affiliation Agreement dated October l3, 1988 between Community Bank of Mahomet and CBM Bank, Mahomet and joined in by First Busey Corporation (filed as Exhibit 2.1 to First Busey's Registration Statement on Form S- 4 (Registration No. 33-25159), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.6 Merger Agreement dated October 13, 1988 between Community Bank of Mahomet and CBM Bank, Mahomet and joined in by Busey Corporation (filed as Exhibit 2.2 to First Busey's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration No. 33-25159), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.7 First Busey Corporation Employee Stock Ownership Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.7 to First Busey's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988 (Registration No. 2-66201), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.8 First Busey Corporation 1988 Stock Option Plan (filed as Exhibit 10.8 to First Busey's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988 (Registration No. 2-66201), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.9 Affiliation Agreement dated as of April 10, 1989 between First Busey Corporation and St. Joseph Bancorp, Inc. (filed as Exhibit 2.1 to First Busey's Corporation Statement on Form S-4 (Registration No. 33- 28926), and incorporated herein by reference) 28

Exhibit Sequentially Number Description of Exhibit Numbered Page - ------ ---------------------- ------------- 10.10 Agreement and Plan of Merger dated April 10, 1989 between First Busey Corporation and St. Joseph Bancorp, Inc. (filed as Exhibit 2.2 to First Busey's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration No 33- 28926), and incorporated herein by reference) 10.11 Affiliation Agreement dated as of October 2, 1992 between First Busey Corporation and Empire Capital Corporation (filed as Exhibit 2.1 to First Busey's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (Registration No. 33-54664), and incorporated herein by reference) 21.1 List of Subsidiaries of First Busey Corporation 23.1 Consent of Independent Public Accountants FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES Financial statement schedules not included in this Form 10-K have been omitted because they are not applicable for the required information shown in the financial statements or notes thereto. FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Page --------- Independent Auditor's Report 34 Consolidated Balance Sheets 35 Consolidated Statements of Income 36 Consolidated Statements of 37-40 Stockholders' Equity Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 41-43 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 44-70 Management Report 71 Independent Accountant's Report 72 REPORTS ON FORM 8-K No reports on Form 8-K have been filed for or on behalf of First Busey Corporation during the last quarter or the period covered by this Form 10-K. FORM S-8 UNDERTAKING For the purposes of complying with the amendments to the rules governing Form S-8 (effective July 13, 1990) under the Securities Act of 1933, the undersigned registrant hereby undertakes as follows, which undertaking shall be incorporated by reference into the registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 File No. 33-30095. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of the expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer, or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the 29

question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue. 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, in the City of Urbana, Illinois on March 18, 1997. FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION BY //DOUGLAS C. MILLS// ---------------------- Douglas C. Mills Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated on March 18, 1997. Signature Title //DOUGLAS C. MILLS// Chairman of the Board, -------------------- President and Chief Douglas C. Mills Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer) //SCOTT L. HENDRIE// Senior Vice President -------------------- and Chief Scott L. Hendrie Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer) //JOSEPH M. AMBROSE// Director --------------------- Joseph M. Ambrose //SAMUEL P. BANKS// Director --------------------- Samuel P. Banks //T. O. DAWSON// Director --------------------- T. O. Dawson //VICTOR F. FELDMAN// Director --------------------- Victor F. Feldman //KENNETH M. HENDREN// Director --------------------- Kenneth M. Hendren //JUDITH L. IKENBERRY// Director --------------------- Judith L. Ikenberry //E. PHILLIPS KNOX// Director --------------------- E. Phillips Knox //P. DAVID KUHL// Director --------------------- P. David Kuhl //V. B. LEISTER, JR.// Director --------------------- V. B. Leister, Jr. 30

//LINDA M. MILLS// Director --------------------- Linda M. Mills //ROBERT C. PARKER// Director --------------------- Robert C. Parker //JOHN W. POLLARD// Director --------------------- John W. Pollard //EDWIN A. SCHARLAU II// Director --------------------- Edwin A. Scharlau II //BEN SNYDER// Director --------------------- Ben Snyder //DAVID C. THIES// Director --------------------- David C. Thies //ARTHUR R. WYATT// Director --------------------- Arthur R. Wyatt 31

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS DECEMBER 31, 1996 32

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONTENTS - ---------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT 34 - ---------------------------------------------------------------- CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Consolidated balance sheets 35 Consolidated statements of income 36 Consolidated statements of stockholders' equity 37-40 Consolidated statements of cash flows 41-43 Notes to consolidated financial statements 44-70 - ---------------------------------------------------------------- INTERNAL CONTROL STRUCTURE REPORTS Management Report - Effectiveness of the Internal 71 Control Structure Independent Accountant's Report 72 - ---------------------------------------------------------------- 33

[McGladrey & Pullen, LLP Letterhead] INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT To the Stockholders and Board of Directors First Busey Corporation Urbana, Illinois We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of First Busey Corporation and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the related consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1996. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Corporation's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. 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 First Busey Corporation and Subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1996, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. //MCGLADREY & PULLEN, LLP// Champaign, Illinois January 31, 1997 34

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS December 31, 1996 and 1995 1996 1995 - ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) ASSETS Cash and due from banks $ 33,738 $ 39,358 Federal funds sold - 650 Securities held to maturity (fair value 1996 $55,800; 1995 $62,625) 55,107 61,501 Securities available for sale 171,243 223,016 Loans held for sale (fair value 1996 $1,457; 1995 $1,840) 1,447 1,803 Loans (net of allowance for loan losses 1996 $6,131; 1995 $5,473) 561,922 474,496 Premises and equipment 21,588 21,857 Other assets 19,873 21,985 ----------------------------------- TOTAL ASSETS $ 864,918 $ 844,666 =================================== LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities Deposits: Noninterest bearing $ 78,077 $ 72,386 Interest bearing 688,850 672,511 ----------------------------------- TOTAL DEPOSITS 766,927 744,897 Short-term borrowings 14,405 21,674 Long-term debt 5,000 5,000 Other liabilities 5,169 5,317 ----------------------------------- TOTAL LIABILITIES 791,501 776,888 ----------------------------------- Stockholders' Equity Preferred stock, no par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued - - Common stock: Class A common stock, no par value, authorized 40,000,000 shares 1996 and 10,000,000 shares 1995; 5,952,353 shares issued 1996 and 1995 5,291 5,291 Class B common stock, no par value, authorized 10,000,000 shares 1996 and 2,500,000 shares 1995; 1,125,000 shares issued 1996 and 1995 1,000 1,000 Surplus 20,594 20,380 Retained earnings 47,402 42,474 Unrealized gain on securities available for sale, net 3,285 3,093 ----------------------------------- TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY BEFORE TREASURY STOCK, UNEARNED ESOP SHARES AND DEFERRED COMPENSATION FOR STOCK GRANTS 77,572 72,238 Treasury stock, at cost, 230,641 shares 1996; 265,395 shares 1995 (3,489) (3,659) Unearned ESOP shares and deferred compensation for stock grants (666) (801) ----------------------------------- TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 73,417 67,778 ----------------------------------- TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 864,918 $ 844,666 ----------------------------------- See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 35

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996, 1995 AND 1994 1996 1995 1994 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) Interest income: Interest and fees on loans $ 45,948 $ 39,763 $ 33,628 Interest and dividends on securities Taxable interest income 12,579 11,681 11,276 Nontaxable interest income 2,111 2,034 1,877 Dividends 118 132 123 Interest on federal funds sold 441 884 222 ----------------------------------------------- TOTAL INTEREST INCOME 61,197 54,494 47,126 ----------------------------------------------- Interest expense: Interest on deposits 28,710 24,632 18,760 Interest on short-term borrowings 1,045 1,606 1,166 Interest on long-term debt 278 277 286 ----------------------------------------------- TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE 30,033 26,515 20,212 ----------------------------------------------- NET INTEREST INCOME 31,164 27,979 26,914 Provision for loan losses 1,100 395 240 ----------------------------------------------- NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR LOAN LOSSES 30,064 27,584 26,674 ----------------------------------------------- Other income: Service charges on deposit accounts 2,937 2,705 2,522 Trust 2,651 2,551 2,332 Commissions and brokers fees, net 812 628 644 Other service charges and fees 949 640 559 Security gains, net 256 206 302 Trading security (losses) gains, net (100) 26 (188) Gain on sales of pooled loans 268 653 865 Other 996 1,150 970 ----------------------------------------------- TOTAL OTHER INCOME 8,769 8,559 8,006 ----------------------------------------------- Other expenses: Salaries and wages 11,662 10,462 10,121 Employee benefits 2,206 2,084 1,896 Net occupancy expense of premises 1,936 1,977 1,826 Furniture and equipment expenses 1,651 1,582 1,588 Data processing 1,476 1,745 1,179 FDIC expense 568 874 1,441 Amortization of intangible assets 1,321 860 860 Stationery, supplies and printing 715 690 632 Foreclosed property write-down and expense 150 226 94 Other 4,101 3,569 3,463 ----------------------------------------------- TOTAL OTHER EXPENSES 25,786 24,069 23,100 ----------------------------------------------- INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 13,047 12,074 11,580 Income taxes 3,741 3,299 3,342 ----------------------------------------------- NET INCOME $ 9,306 $ 8,775 $ 8,238 ----------------------------------------------- Net income per share of common stock and common stock equivalents $ 1.34 $ 1.27 $ 1.19 ----------------------------------------------- See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 36

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996, 1995 AND 1994 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unrealized Deferred Gain Compen- (Loss) on sation Class A Class B Securities Unearned for Common Common Retained Available Treasury ESOP Stock Stock Stock Surplus Earnings for Sale Stock Shares Grants Total ------- ------- ------- -------- ---------- -------- -------- -------- ----- (Dollars in thousands except per share amounts) Balance, December 31, 1993 $5,291 $1,000 $20,217 $33,010 $- $(1,700) $(1,400) $(86) $56,332 Implementation of change in accounting principle for securities avail- able for sale - - - - 4,446 - - - 4,446 Net income - - - 8,238 - - - - 8,238 Purchase of 75,200 shares for the treasury - - - - - (1,653) - - (1,653) Issuance of 8,500 shares of treasury stock - - 82 - - 127 - (124) 85 Cash dividends - Class A common stock $.80 per share - - - (3,063) - - - - (3,063) Class B common stock $.73 per share - - - (546) - - - - (546) Principal payments on employee stock ownership plan debt - - - - - - 400 - 400 Amortization of restricted stock issued under restricted stock award plan - - - - - - - 65 65 Change in unrealized (loss) on invest- ment securities available for sale, net - - - - (5,288) - - - (5,288) ------ ------ ------- ------- ------- -------- -------- ------ ------- Balance, December 31, 1994 $5,291 $1,000 $20,299 $37,639 $ (842) $ (3,226) $ (1,000) $ (145) $59,016 Net income - - - 8,775 - - - - 8,775 Purchase of 28,096 shares for the treasury - - - - - (705) - - (705) Issuance of 18,000 shares of treasury stock - - 81 - - 272 - - 353 Cash dividends - Class A common stock $.88 per share - - - (3,340) - - - - (3,340) Class B common stock $.80 per share - - - (600) - - - - (600) Principal payments on employee stock ownership plan debt - - - - - - 250 - 250 Amortization of restricted stock issued under restricted stock award plan - - - - - - - 94 94 Change in unrealized gain on invest- ment securities available for sale, net - - - - 3,935 - - - 3,935 ------ ------ ------- ------- ------ -------- -------- ------ ------- Balance, December 31, 1995 $5,291 $1,000 $20,380 $42,474 $3,093 $ (3,659) $ (750) $ (51) $67,778 37&38

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (Continued) YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996, 1995 AND 1994 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unrealized Deferred Gain Compen- (Loss) on sation Class A Class B Securities Unearned for Common Common Retained Available Treasury ESOP Stock Stock Stock Surplus Earnings for Sale Stock Shares Grants Total ------- ------- ------- -------- ---------- -------- -------- -------- ----- (Dollars in thousands except per share amounts) Balance, December 31, 1995 $5,291 $1,000 $20,380 $42,474 $3,093 $ (3,659) $ (750) $ (51) $67,778 Net income - - - 9,306 - - - - 9,306 Purchase of 28,096 shares for the treasury - - - - - (605) - - (605) Issuance of 18,000 shares of treasury stock - - 214 - - 775 - (192) 797 Cash dividends - Class A common stock $.88 per share - - - (3,710) - - - - (3,710) Class B common stock $.80 per share - - - (668) - - - - (668) Principal payments on employee stock ownership plan debt - - - - - - 250 - 250 Amortization of restricted stock issued under restricted stock award plan - - - - - - - 77 77 Change in unrealized gain on invest- ment securities available for sale, net - - - - 192 - - - 192 ------ ------ ------- ------- ------ -------- -------- ------ ------- Balance, December 31, 1995 $5,291 $1,000 $20,594 $47,402 $3,285 $ (3,489) $ (500) $ (166) $73,417 ====== ====== ======= ======= ====== ======== ======== ====== ======= See Accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 39&40

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Years Ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 1996 1995 1994 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net income $ 9,306 $ 8,775 $ 8,238 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 3,355 2,801 2,505 Write-down on real property - - 350 Provision for loan losses 1,100 395 240 Provision for deferred income taxes (373) (705) (182) Amortization of security discounts (1,000) (820) (214) Gain on sales of securities, net (256) (206) (302) Proceeds from sales of pooled loans 34,742 34,223 43,333 Loans originated for sale (34,118) (27,139) (35,059) Gain on sales of pooled loans, net (268) (653) (865) (Gain) loss on sales and dispositions of premises and equipment (6) 8 (40) Change in assets and liabilities: Decrease (increase) in other assets 1,457 (4,682) (595) (Decrease) increase in other liabilities (148) 2,128 237 ------------------------------------------------- NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES 13,791 14,125 17,646 ------------------------------------------------- Cash Flows from Investing Activities Securities held to maturity: Purchases (20,556) (8,929) (34,125) Proceeds from sales - - 60 Proceeds from maturities 26,889 14,360 27,704 Securities available for sale: Purchases (357,712) (229,274) (51,110) Proceeds from sales 15,948 55,189 48,824 Proceeds from maturities 395,149 101,722 27,721 Decrease (increase) in federal funds sold 650 (650) 3,025 Increase in loans (88,922) (37,998) (46,513) Purchases of premises and equipment (1,713) (1,788) (2,765) Proceeds from sales of premises and equipment 31 - 184 ------------------------------------------------- NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES (30,236) (107,368) (26,995) ------------------------------------------------- (Continued) 41

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued) Years Ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 1996 1995 1994 - --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in certificates of deposit $ 1,102 $ 24,233 $ (19,686) Net increase in demand deposits, money market and savings accounts 20,928 6,982 18,962 Certificates of deposit assumed from First of America - 67,506 - Demand deposits, money market and savings accounts assumed from First of America - 10,482 - Cash dividends paid (4,378) (3,940) (3,609) Purchase of treasury stock (605) (705) (1,653) Proceeds from sales of treasury stock 797 353 85 Proceeds from short-term notes payable 1,000 5,750 3,300 Principal payments on short-term notes payable (2,000) (1,250) (3,800) Principal payments on long-term debt - - (1,645) Net (decrease) increase in federal funds purchased, repurchase agreements and federal reserve discount obligations (6,019) (8,136) 19,550 ------------------------------------------------- NET CASH PROVIDED BY FINANCING ACTIVITIES 10,825 101,275 11,504 ------------------------------------------------- NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS (5,620) 8,032 2,155 Cash and due from banks, beginning 39,358 31,326 29,171 ------------------------------------------------- Cash and due from banks, ending $ 33,738 $ 39,358 $ 31,326 ================================================= Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information Cash payments for: Interest $ 30,573 $ 25,795 $ 20,091 ------------------------------------------------- Income taxes $ 3,661 $ 3,894 $ 3,564 ================================================= (CONTINUED) 42

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE 1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Description of business: First Busey Corporation (the Corporation) is a holding company whose bank subsidiary provides a full range of banking services to individual and corporate customers through its seventeen locations throughout central Illinois. The Bank is subject to competition from other financial institutions and nonfinancial institutions providing financial products. First Busey Securities, Inc. offers security broker/dealer services, and First Busey Trust & Investment Co. provides investment management and fiduciary services to institutional, corporate and personal trust clients. First Busey Corporation, the Bank, First Busey Securities, Inc. and First Busey Trust & Investment Co. are subject to the regulations of certain regulatory agencies and undergo periodic examinations by those regulatory agencies. The significant accounting and reporting policies for First Busey Corporation and its subsidiaries follow: Basis of consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of First Busey Corporation and its subsidiaries: Busey Bank and its subsidiaries: First Busey Securities, Inc. and Busey Commerce Technologies, Inc.; First Busey Trust & Investment Co.; and First Busey Resources, Inc. All material intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. The consolidated financial statements of First Busey Corporation have been prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles and conform to predominate practice within the banking industry. Use of estimates In preparing the consolidated financial statements, the Corporation's management is required to make estimates and assumptions which significantly affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements. Significant estimates which are particularly susceptible to change in a short period of time include the determination of the allowance for loan losses and valuation of real estate and other properties acquired in connection with foreclosures or in satisfaction of amounts due from borrowers on loans. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Trust assets Other than trust cash on deposit at the Corporation's bank subsidiary, trust assets are not included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements because they are not assets of the Corporation. Cash flows For purposes of reporting cash flows, cash and due from banks include cash on hand and amounts due from banks. Cash flows from federal funds purchased and sold are reported net, since their original maturities are less than three months. 44

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Securities Securities classified as held to maturity are those debt securities the Corporation has both the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity regardless of changes in market conditions, liquidity needs or changes in general economic conditions. These securities are carried at cost adjusted for amortization of premium and accretion of discount which are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the period to maturity. Securities classified as available for sale are those debt securities that the Corporation intends to hold for an indefinite period of time, but not necessarily to maturity, and marketable equity securities. Any decision to sell a security classified as available for sale would be based on various factors, including significant movements in interest rates, changes in the maturity mix of the Corporation's assets and liabilities, liquidity needs, regulatory capital considerations and other similar factors. Securities available for sale are carried at fair value. The difference between fair value and amortized cost results in an unrealized gain or loss. Unrealized gains or losses are reported as increases or decreases in stockholders' equity, net of the related deferred tax effect. Realized gains or losses, determined on the basis of the cost of specific securities sold, are included in earnings. Where applicable, amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts are recognized in interest income using the interest method over the period to maturity. Securities purchased with the intent to earn a profit by trading or reselling them in a short period of time are classified as trading securities and are carried at fair value. Realized and unrealized gains and losses are included in income. At December 31, 1996 and 1995, there were no securities classified in this category. Loans Loans are stated at the principal amount outstanding, net of unearned interest and the allowance for loan losses. Unearned interest on discounted loans is credited to income over the duration of the loans using the interest method. For all other loans, interest is credited to income as earned using the simple interest method applied to the daily balances of principal outstanding. The accrual of interest income on loans is discontinued when, in the opinion of management, there is reasonable doubt as to the borrower's ability to meet payments of interest or principal when they become due. Interest income on these loans is recognized to the extent interest payments are received and the principal is considered fully collectible. For collateralized impaired loans, loan balances in excess of net realizable value are deemed impaired. In the determination of the valuation, the major risk classifications such as historical charge-offs for each category of loans, local economic trends, the source of loans and concentrations of credit in specific industries, if any, are considered. 45

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Allowance for loan losses The allowance for loan losses is maintained at a level considered adequate by management to provide for known and inherent risks in the loan portfolio. The allowance is increased through a provision charged to operating expense and by recoveries applicable to loans previously charged to the allowance, and is reduced by loan balances which are considered uncollectible. The allowance is based upon continuous credit reviews of the loan portfolio and considers changes in the nature and volume of the loan portfolio, overall portfolio quality, loan concentrations, specific problem loans, current and anticipated economic conditions that may affect the borrowers' ability to pay, historical loan loss experience and other factors, which, in management's opinion, deserve current recognition in estimating loan losses. In addition, various regulatory agencies periodically review the allowance for loan losses, and may require the Bank to make additions to the allowance based on their judgment of collectibility based on information available to them at the time of their examination. Loans held for sale Loans held for sale consist of fixed rate mortgage loans conforming to established guidelines and held for sale to investors and the secondary mortgage market. Mortgage loans held for sale are carried at the lower of aggregate cost or estimated fair value. Premises and equipment Premises and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed principally by the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Other real estate owned Other real estate owned (OREO) represents properties acquired through foreclosure or other proceedings in settlement of loans. OREO is held for sale and is recorded at the date of foreclosure at the fair value of the properties less estimated costs of disposal. Any write-down to fair value at the time of transfer to OREO is charged to the allowance for loan losses. Property is evaluated regularly to ensure the recorded amount is supported by its current fair value and valuation allowances to reduce the carrying amount to fair value less estimated costs to dispose are recorded as necessary. Amortization The excess of the purchase price of subsidiaries over the fair value of identifiable assets acquired, which excess aggregated approximately $10,480,000, is amortized using the straight-line method over 15 years. Amortization of this excess is $691,000, $479,000 and $479,000 for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. Accumulated amortization at December 31, 1996, is $3,992,000. Core deposit and other identifiable intangible assets which aggregated approximately $4,917,000 are amortized on an accelerated basis over the estimated periods benefited. Amortization of these intangibles is $630,000, $381,000 and $381,000 for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 respectively. Accumulated amortization at December 31, 1996 is $2,463,000. 46

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Corporation reviews its intangible assets periodically to determine potential impairment by comparing the carrying value of the intangibles with the anticipated future cash flows of the related businesses. Income taxes The Corporation and its subsidiaries file consolidated Federal and State income tax returns with each organization computing its taxes on a separate entity basis. The provision for income taxes is based on income as reported in the financial statements. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are computed annually for differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities that will result in taxable or deductible amounts in the future. The deferred tax assets and liabilities are computed based on enacted tax laws and rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to an amount expected to be realized. Income tax expense is the tax payable or refundable for the period plus or minus the change during the period in deferred tax assets and liabilities. Earnings per common share and common share equivalents Earnings per share are computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of shares outstanding as increased by common stock equivalents. This increase is the number of shares issuable upon exercise of stock options less common shares assumed to have been purchased by the Corporation with the proceeds received upon exercise. Certain options are not included in computing the common stock equivalents because their inclusion would have an antidilutive effect. The weighted average number of shares used in computing earnings per share are: Year ended December 31, 1996 6,936,508 ========= Year ended December 31, 1995 6,911,246 ========= Year ended December 31, 1994 6,943,773 ========= Stock split In April 1996, the Board of Directors approved a three-for-two stock split for stockholders of record on April 26, 1996 and was effected on May 7, 1996. All share amounts in the consolidated financial statements have been restated to reflect the stock split. Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made to the balances as of and for the years ended December 31, 1995 and 1994 to be consistent with the classifications adopted for 1996. 47

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Recent accounting pronouncements Accounting for mortgage servicing rights On January 1, 1996, the Corporation adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 122 (SFAS 122), "Accounting for Mortgage Servicing Rights." SFAS 122 requires the Corporation to recognize as separate assets rights to service mortgage loans for others, however those servicing rights are acquired. If the Bank acquires mortgage servicing rights through either the purchase or origination of mortgage loans and sells or securitizes those loans with servicing rights retained, the Corporation should allocate the total cost of the mortgage loans to mortgage servicing rights and the loans (without the mortgage servicing rights) based on their relative fair values. The mortgage servicing rights should be amortized in proportion to and over the period of estimated net servicing income. Adoption of SFAS 122 did not have a material effect on the Corporation's consolidated financial statements. Accounting for stock based compensation On January 1, 1996, the Corporation adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (SFAS 123), "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation". SFAS 123 establishes financial accounting and reporting standards for stock-based employee compensation plans and also applies to transactions in which an entity issues its equity instruments to acquire goods or services from nonemployees. SFAS 123 defines a fair value-based method of accounting for an employee stock option or similar equity instruments and encourages all entities to adopt that method of accounting. SFAS 123 allows an entity to continue to measure compensation cost for those plans using the intrinsic value-based method of accounting prescribed by Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees". Proforma disclosures are required for entities that elect to continue to measure compensation cost using APB 25, and must include the effect of all awards granted in fiscal years beginning after December 31, 1994. The Corporation plans to continue measuring compensation cost using APB 25. Accounting for transfers and servicing of financial assets and extinguishments of liabilities In June 1996, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 125 (SFAS 125), "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities". SFAS 125 distinguishes transfers of financial assets that are sales from transfers that are secured borrowings. A transfer of financial assets in which the transferor surrenders control over those assets is accounted for as a sale to the extent that consideration other than beneficial interest in the transferred assets is received in exchange. SFAS 125 also establishes standards on the initial recognition and measurement of servicing assets and other retained interests and servicing liabilities, and their subsequent measurement. SFAS 125 requires that debtors reclassify financial assets pledged as collateral and that secured parties recognize those assets and their obligation in return in certain circumstances in which the secured party has taken control of those assets. In addition, SFAS 125 requires that a liability be derecognized only if the debtor is relieved of its obligation through payment to the creditor or by being legally released from being the primary obligor under the liability either judicially or by the creditor. 48

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SFAS 125 is effective for transactions occurring after December 31, 1996, except for transactions relating to secured borrowings and collateral for which the effective date is December 31, 1997. The Company believes the adoption of SFAS 125 will not have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements. NOTE 2. CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS The Corporation's banking subsidiary is required to maintain certain average cash reserve balances with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, which may be offset by cash on hand. The required reserve balances as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 were approximately $14,474,000 and $12,846,000, respectively. NOTE 3. SECURITIES The amortized cost and fair values of securities held to maturity are summarized as follows: Gross Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value ---------------------------------------------------------------- HELD TO MATURITY SECURITIES: (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 1996: U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies $ 8,635 $ - $ 119 $ 8,516 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 36,607 789 153 37,243 Corporate securities 6,640 80 - 6,720 Mortgage-backed securities 3,225 98 2 3,321 ---------------------------------------------------------------- $ 55,107 $ 967 $ 274 $ 55,800 ================================================================ December 31, 1995: U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies $ 13,198 $ 3 $ 233 $ 12,968 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 37,043 1,079 59 38,063 Corporate securities 7,147 195 - 7,342 Mortgage-backed securities 4,113 139 - 4,252 ---------------------------------------------------------------- $ 61,501 $ 1,416 $ 292 $ 62,625 ================================================================ 49

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The amortized cost and fair values of securities available for sale are summarized as follows: Gross Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value ---------------------------------------------------------------- AVAILABLE FOR SALE SECURITIES: (Dollars in thousands) December 31, 1996: U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies $ 159,354 $ 255 $ 565 $ 159,044 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 1,250 4 1 1,253 Corporate securities 1,025 6 3 1,028 Equity securities 3,707 5,417 59 9,065 Other debt securities 853 - - 853 ---------------------------------------------------------------- $ 166,189 $ 5,682 $ 628 $ 171,243 ================================================================ December 31, 1995: U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies $ 212,797 $ 1,169 $ 104 $ 213,862 Obligations of states and political subdivisions 200 2 - 202 Corporate securities 721 13 4 730 Equity securities 3,906 3,726 43 7,589 Other debt securities 633 - - 633 ---------------------------------------------------------------- $ 218,257 $ 4,910 $ 151 $ 223,016 ================================================================ 50

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The amortized cost and fair value of securities, other than equity securities, as of December 31, 1996, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the mortgage-backed securities may be called or prepaid without penalty. Therefore, these securities are not included in the maturity categories in the following maturity summary. Held to Maturity Available for Sale --------------------------------------------------------- Amortized Fair Amortized Fair Cost Value Cost Value --------------------------------------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) (Dollars in thousands) Due in one year or less $ 8,756 $ 8,812 $ 89,144 $ 89,135 Due after one year through five years 24,305 24,608 71,084 70,827 Due after five years through ten years 14,977 15,238 2,254 2,216 Due after ten years 3,844 3,821 - - --------------------------------------------------------- 51,882 52,479 162,482 162,178 Mortgage-backed securities 3,225 3,321 - - --------------------------------------------------------- $ 55,107 $ 55,800 $162,482 $162,178 ========================================================= Gains and losses related to sales of securities for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 are summarized as follows (in thousands): 1996 1995 1994 ----------------------------------------- Gross security gains $ 258 $ 351 $ 374 Gross security losses 2 145 72 ----------------------------------------- Net security gains $ 256 $ 206 $ 302 ========================================= Investment securities with carrying values of $127,955,000 and $141,602,000 on December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively, were pledged as collateral on public deposits and for other purposes as required or permitted by law. 51

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE 4. LOANS The composition of net loans is as follows: December 31, ------------------------- 1996 1995 ------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Commercial $ 62,065 $ 55,687 Real estate construction 26,184 25,566 Real estate - farmland 11,468 11,162 Real estate - 1 to 4 family residential mortgage 206,499 177,244 Real estate - multifamily mortgage 74,245 57,364 Real estate - non-farm nonresidential mortgage 131,350 98,006 Installment 39,707 42,353 Agricultural 16,537 12,594 ------------------------- 568,055 479,976 ------------------------- Less: Unearned interest 2 7 Allowance for loan losses 6,131 5,473 ------------------------- 6,133 5,480 ------------------------- Net loans $ 561,922 $ 474,496 ========================= The amount of loans serviced by the Corporation for the benefit of others is not included in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. The unpaid principal balances of these loans were $101,344,000 and $93,478,000 as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The loan portfolio includes a concentration of loans for commercial real estate amounting to approximately $205,595,000 and $155,370,000 as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Generally these loans are collateralized by assets of the borrowers. The loans are expected to be repaid from cash flows or from proceeds from the sale of selected assets of the borrowers. Credit losses arising from lending transactions for commercial real estate entities are comparable with the Corporation's credit loss experience on its loan portfolio as a whole. The Corporation's opinion as to the ultimate collectibility of loans is subject to estimates regarding future cash flows from operations and the value of property, real and personal, pledged as collateral. These estimates are reflected by changing economic conditions and the economic prospects of borrowers. 52

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The following table presents data on impaired loans: 1996 1995 ----------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Impaired loans for which an allowance has been provided $ - $ - Impaired loans for which no allowance has been provided - 410 ----------------------------- Total loans determined to be impaired $ - $ 410 ============================= Allowance for loan loss for impaired loans included in the allowance for loan losses $ - $ - ============================= Average recorded investment in impaired loans $ 201 $ 480 ============================= Interest income recognized from impaired loans $ - $ - ============================= Cash basis interest income recognized from impaired loans $ - $ 37 ============================= Nonaccruing loans were $636,000 on December 31, 1994. The gross interest income that would have been recorded in the year ended December 31, 1994, if the nonaccrual and restructured loans had been current in accordance with their original terms, was $47,000. The amount of interest collected on these loans that was included in interest income for the year ended December 31, 1994 was $38,000. NOTE 5. ALLOWANCE FOR LOAN LOSSES Changes in the allowance for loan losses were as follows: Years Ended December 31, ------------------------------------ 1996 1995 1994 ------------------------------------ (Dollars in thousands) Balance, beginning of year $ 5,473 $ 5,235 $ 5,205 Provision charged to operating expense 1,100 395 240 Recoveries applicable to loan balances previously charged off 240 523 295 ------------------------------------ 6,813 6,153 5,740 Loan balances charged off 682 680 505 ------------------------------------ Balance, ending of year $ 6,131 $ 5,473 $ 5,235 ==================================== 53

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE 6. PREMISES AND EQUIPMENT Premises and equipment are summarized as follows: December 31, -------------------------- 1996 1995 -------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Land $ 4,899 $ 4,908 Buildings and improvements 21,781 21,547 Furniture and equipment 8,633 7,902 -------------------------- 35,313 34,357 Less accumulated depreciation 13,725 12,500 -------------------------- $21,588 $ 21,857 ========================== Depreciation expense was $1,957,000, $1,847,000 and $1,580,000 for the years ending December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. NOTE 7. DEPOSITS The aggregate amount of time deposits with a minimum denomination of $100,000, was approximately $65,462,000 and $52,569,000 at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. As of December 31, 1996, the scheduled maturities of certificates of deposit are as follows: 1997 $ 242,459 1998 60,565 1999 23,413 2000 15,724 2001 and thereafter 4,701 ----------- $ 346,862 =========== 54

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE 8. SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS Short-term borrowings are summarized as follows: December 31, --------------------------- 1996 1995 --------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Notes payable, American National Bank of Chicago, due January 31, 1997, interest payable quarterly at LIBOR plus 1.50% (effective rate of 7.39% at December 31, 1996): $10,000,000 line of credit, collateralized by all of the capital stock of Busey Bank. $ 7,500 $ 8,500 Collateralized by 36,905 shares of First Busey Corporation Class A common stock owned by employee stock ownership plan. 250 375 Collateralized by 36,905 shares of First Busey Corporation Class A common stock owned by employee stock ownership plan. 250 375 Federal funds purchased 6,400 - Securities sold under agreements to repurchase 5 12,101 U.S. Treasury Note accounts - 323 --------------------------- $ 14,405 $ 21,674 =========================== Information concerning securities sold under agreements to repurchase is summarized as follows: Years Ended December 31, -------------------------- 1996 1995 -------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Maximum month-end balance during the year $ 12,029 $ 18,611 Average balance during the year 5,243 13,462 Weighted average interest rate for the year 5.04% 6.22% 55

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In accordance with the consensus reached on Issue Number 89-10 at the June 1989 meeting of the Financial Accounting Standards Board's Emerging Issues Task Force, the Company has recorded the debt of the employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), which totaled $500,000 and $750,000 at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively as short-term borrowings and a reduction of stockholders' equity. NOTE 9. LONG-TERM DEBT Long-term debt is summarized as follows: December 31, -------------------------- 1996 1995 -------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Note payable, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, 5.46%, monthly installments of interest through June 25, 1998, balance due June 25, 1998, collateralized by all unpledged U.S. Treasury and U.S. Agency securities, first mortgages on residential real estate and Federal Home Loan Bank stock $ 5,000 $ 5,000 ========================== NOTE 10. INCOME TAXES The components of income tax expense consist of: Years Ended December 31, ------------------------------------- 1996 1995 1994 ------------------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Current $ 4,114 $ 4,004 $ 3,524 Deferred (373) (705) (182) ------------------------------------- TOTAL INCOME TAX EXPENSE $ 3,741 $ 3,299 $ 3,342 ===================================== 56

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A reconciliation of federal income taxes at statutory rates to the income taxes included in the statements of income is as follows: Years ended December 31, ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1996 1995 1994 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ % of % of % of Pretax Pretax Pretax Amount Income Amount Income Amount Income ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (Dollars in thousands) Income tax at statutory rate $ 4,566 35.0% $ 4,226 35.0% $ 4,053 35.0% Effect of: Benefit of income taxed at lower rates (100) (0.8) (100) (0.9) (100) (0.9) Tax-exempt interest, net (805) (6.2) (788) (6.5) (744) (6.3) Amortization of intangibles 170 1.3 170 1.4 165 1.4 Other (90) (0.6) (209) (1.7) (32) (0.3) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ $ 3,741 28.7% $ 3,299 27.3% $ 3,342 28.9% ======================================================================== Income taxes related to realized gains on sales of securities were $90,000, $72,000 and $106,000 for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. The net deferred tax asset, included in other assets, in the accompanying balance sheets includes the following amounts of deferred tax assets and liabilities: 1996 1995 ----------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Deferred tax liability $ (2,446) $ (2,325) Deferred tax asset 3,686 3,269 Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets (507) (481) ----------------------------- Net deferred tax asset $ 733 $ 463 ============================= 57

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The tax effects of principal temporary differences are shown in the following table: 1996 1995 ----------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Investment securities: Unrealized gain on securities available for sale $ (1,769) $ (1,666) Other 219 219 Basis in premises and equipment (564) (567) Allowance for loan losses 2,432 2,156 Property acquired in settlement of loans 41 79 Loans held for sale 4 15 Basis in deposit intangibles 419 298 Deferred compensation 388 275 Performance/restricted stock 10 29 State net operating loss carryforward 173 198 Other (113) (92) ----------------------------- 1,240 944 Valuation allowance (507) (481) ----------------------------- $ 733 $ 463 ============================= State net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $3,714,000 are available to offset future taxable income. The carryforwards expire as follows: 2005 - $371,000; 2006 - $2,465,000; 2007 - $860,000 and 2008 - $18,000. NOTE 11. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS The Corporation established the First Busey Corporation Employees' Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as of January 1, 1984. All full time employees who meet certain age and length of service requirements are eligible to participate in the ESOP which purchased common shares of the Corporation using the proceeds of bank borrowings secured by the stock. The borrowings are to be repaid using fully deductible contributions to the trust fund. As the ESOP makes each payment of principal, an appropriate percentage of stock will be allocated to eligible employee's accounts in accordance with applicable regulations under the Internal Revenue Code. Allocations of common stock released and forfeitures are based on the eligible compensation of each participant. Dividends on allocated shares of common stock are distributed directly to the participants and dividends on unallocated shares are used to service the bank borrowings. All shares held by the ESOP are included in the computation of average common shares and common share equivalents. This accounting treatment is grandfathered under Statement of Position 93-6, "Employers' Accounting for Employee Stock Ownership Plans" for shares purchased prior to December 31, 1992. All shares included in the Corporation's ESOP were purchased prior to this date. 58

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- During the year ended December 31, 1996, $250,000 of compensation expense was recognized for the ESOP, releasing 36,905 common shares to participant accounts, and is reflected in the chart below under "Employee Benefits." As of December 31, 1996, the ESOP held 366,960 shares that were allocated to participant accounts and 73,810 suspense shares. The Corporation does not have any repurchase obligation. All full-time employees who meet certain age and length of service requirements are eligible to participate in the Corporation's profit- sharing plan. The contributions, if any, are determined solely by the Boards of Directors of the Corporation and its subsidiaries and in no case may the annual contributions be greater than the amounts deductible for federal income tax purposes for that year. The rights of the participants vest ratably over a seven-year period. Employer contributions to the employee benefit plans are included in the statements of income as follows: Years Ended December 31, ------------------------------------ 1996 1995 1994 ------------------------------------ (Dollars in Thousands) [S] [C] [C] [C] Employee benefits $ 703 $ 623 $ 617 Interest on employee stock ownership plan debt 47 77 93 ------------------------------------ TOTAL EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTIONS $ 750 $ 700 $ 710 ==================================== NOTE 12. STOCK INCENTIVE PLANS Stock Option Plan: In March 1989, the Corporation adopted the 1988 Stock Option Plan pursuant to which incentive stock options and nonqualified stock options for up to 450,000 shares of Class A common stock may be granted by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors to certain executive officers and key personnel of First Busey Corporation and its subsidiaries. In March 1996, the Board of Directors approved an increase in the number of shares reserved for issuance as stock options from 450,000 to 750,000. 59

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A summary of the status of the Corporation's stock option plan as of December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 and the changes during the years ending on those dates is as follows: 1996 1995 1994 ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Weighted- Weighted- Weighted- Average Average Average Exercise Exercise Exercise Shares Price Shares Price Shares Price ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Outstanding at beginning of year 393,917 $ 13.62 264,957 $ 10.73 233,682 $ 9.79 Granted 6,000 18.50 163,500 17.50 36,900 16.50 Exercised (56,813) 9.33 (27,000) 9.31 (4,500) 9.00 Terminated and reissuable (4,763) 16.37 (7,540) 11.67 (1,125) 10.11 ---------- --------- --------- Outstanding at of year 338,341 14.39 393,917 13.62 264,957 10.73 Exercisable at endof year 4,500 60,750 27,000 ======================================================================= Weighted-average fair value per option of options granted during the year $ 5.37 $ 1.88 N/A The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at December 31, 1996: Options Options Outstanding Exercisable -------------------------------------------------------------- Exercise Number Weighted-Average Number Prices Outstanding Remaining Contractual Life Outstanding --------------------------------------------------------------------------- $ 9.44 4,500 1 year 4,500 10.00 58,500 3 years - 10.11 73,698 3 years - 14.33 1,243 3 years - 16.50 33,900 3 years - 17.50 160,500 5 years - 18.50 6,000 5 years - -------------------------------------------------------------- 338,341 4 years 4,500 ============================================================== 60

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Grants under the above plan are accounted for following APB No. 25 and related Interpretations. Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for grants under this plan. Compensation expense of $689,000, $202,000 and $24,000 was recognized for income tax purposes for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. Had compensation cost for stock-based compensation been determined based on the grant date fair values of awards (the method described in SFAS 123), reported net income and earnings per common share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts shown below: 1996 1995 ---------------------- Net Income (in thousands): As reported $ 9,306 $ 8,775 Pro forma $ 9,262 $ 8,735 Earnings per share: As reported $ 1.34 $ 1.27 Pro forma $ 1.34 $ 1.26 Restricted Stock Award Plan: In January 1993, the Corporation adopted the 1993 Restricted Stock Award Plan pursuant to which restricted stock awards for up to 225,000 shares of Class A common stock may be granted by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors to certain executive officers and key personnel of First Busey Corporation and its subsidiaries. As of December 31, 1996, there were 9,000 shares under grant with performance restrictions allowed by the plan which expire as follows: 1997 - 2,250 shares, 1998 - 2,250 shares, 1999 - 2,250 shares and 2000 - 2,250 shares. Number of Shares ---------------------------------- 1996 1995 1994 ---------------------------------- Under restriction, beginning of year 8,250 14,250 6,000 Granted 9,000 - 8,250 Restrictions released 8,250 6,000 - ---------------------------------- Under restriction, end of year 9,000 8,250 14,250 ================================== Available to grant, end of year 201,750 210,750 210,750 ================================== Compensation expense is recognized for financial statement purposes over the period of performance. Compensation expense of $77,000, $94,000, and $65,000 was recognized for financial statement purposes during the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively. Compensation expense of $184,000 was recognized for income tax purposes for the year ended December 31, 1996. 61

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE 13. TRANSACTIONS WITH DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS The Corporation and its subsidiaries have had, and may be expected to have in the future, banking transactions in the ordinary course of business with directors, executive officers, their immediate families and affiliated companies in which they have 10% or more beneficial ownership (commonly referred to as related parties), on the same terms, including interest rates and collateral, as those prevailing at the time for comparable transactions with others. The following is an analysis of the changes in loans to related parties during the year ended December 31, 1996: Balance at the beginning of year $ 7,503 New loans 3,084 Repayments (2,100) Other (3,109) ------------ Balance at end of year $ 5,378 ============ NOTE 14. COMMON STOCK The holders of Class A common stock are entitled to cash dividends per share which are 10% greater than the cash dividends per share with respect to Class B common stock. Class A stockholders have one vote per share whereas Class B stockholders have ten votes per share. Class B common stock may be converted to Class A common stock at any time on a one-for- one basis. All of the issued Class B common stock is owned by the Chairman of the Board of the Corporation and his spouse. There are no other differences between the two classes of common stock. NOTE 15. CAPITAL RATIOS The Corporation and its subsidiary Bank are subject to various regulatory capital requirements administered by federal and state banking agencies. Failure to meet minimum capital requirements can initiate certain mandatory, and possibly additional discretionary, actions by regulators that, if undertaken, could have a direct material effect on the Corporation's financial statements. Under capital adequacy guidelines and the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action, the Corporation and Bank must meet specific capital guidelines that involve quantitative measures of their assets, liabilities, and certain off-balance-sheet items as calculated under regulatory accounting practices. The Corporation's and Bank's capital amounts and classification are also subject to qualitative judgments by the regulators about components, risk weightings, and other factors. Quantitative measures established by regulation to ensure capital adequacy require the Corporation and Bank to maintain minimum amounts and ratios (set forth in the table below) of total and Tier I capital (as defined in the regulations) to risk-weighted assets (as defined), and Tier 1 capital (as defined) to average assets (as defined). Management believes, as of December 31, 1996, that the Corporation and Bank meet all capital adequacy requirements to which they are subject. 62

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As of December 31, 1996, the most recent notification from the federal and state regulatory agencies categorized the Bank as well capitalized under the regulatory framework for prompt corrective action. To be categorized as well capitalized, the Corporation and Bank must maintain minimum total risk-based, Tier I risk-based, and Tier I leverage ratios as set forth in the table. There are no conditions or events since that notification that management believes have changed the Corporation's or Bank's categories. To Be Well Capitalized Under For Capital Prompt Corrective Actual Adequacy Purposes Action Provisions ------------------------------------------------------------------ Amount Ratio Amount Ratio Amount Ratio ------------------------------------------------------------------ (Dollars in Thousands) As of December 31, 1996: Total Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets) Consolidated $ 67,321 12.48% $ 43,142 8.0% N/A N/A Busey Bank $ 65,077 12.28% $ 42,399 8.0% $ 52,998 10.0% Tier I Capital (to Risk Weighted Assets) Consolidated $ 61,190 11.35% $ 21,571 4.0% N/A N/A Busey Bank $ 58,946 11.12% $ 21,199 4.0% $ 31,799 6.0% Tier I Capital (to Average Assets) Consolidated $ 61,190 7.14% $ 34,279 4.0% N/A N/A Busey Bank $ 58,946 6.93% $ 34,010 4.0% $ 42,512 5.0% NOTE 16. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND CREDIT RISK The Corporation and its subsidiaries are parties to legal actions which arise in the normal course of their business activities. In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of these matters is not expected to have a material effect on the financial position or the results of operations of the Corporation and its subsidiaries. The Corporation and its subsidiaries are parties 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 extend credit, standby letters of credit and financial guarantees. Those instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk. The contract or notional amounts of those instruments reflect the extent of involvement the Corporation has in particular classes of financial instruments. 63

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Corporation and its subsidiaries' exposure to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument for commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit and financial guarantees written is represented by the contractual amount of those instruments. The Corporation and its subsidiaries use the same credit policies in making commitments and conditional obligations as it does for on-balance-sheet instruments. Unless noted otherwise, the Corporation and its subsidiaries do not require collateral or other security to support financial instruments with credit risk. A summary of the contractual amount of the Bank's exposure to off-balance- sheet risk as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, is as follows: 1996 1995 ------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Financial instruments whose contract amounts represent credit risk: Commitments to extend credit $ 120,525 $ 98,030 Standby letters of credit 5,243 2,342 Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the contract. These commitments are generally at variable interest rates and generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. The Corporation evaluates each customer's credit worthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of collateral obtained, if it is deemed necessary by the Corporation upon extension of credit, is based on management's credit evaluation of the counterparty. Collateral held varies but may include accounts receivable, inventory, property and equipment and income-producing commercial properties. Standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by the Corporation to guarantee the performance of a customer to a third party. Those letters of credit are primarily issued to support public and private borrowing arrangements, including bond financing and similar transactions. The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved in extending loan facilities to customers. As of December 31, 1996, the Corporation has no significant futures, forwards, swaps or option contracts, or other financial instruments with similar characteristics. 64

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Note 17. Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument for which it is practicable to estimate that value: Cash and cash equivalents The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheet for cash and due from banks and federal funds sold approximate those assets' fair values. Securities For securities held to maturity and available for sale, fair values are based on quoted market prices or dealer quotes, where available. If a quoted market price is not available, fair value is estimated using quoted market prices for similar securities. The carrying amount of accrued interest receivable approximates fair value. Loans For certain homogeneous categories of loans, such as some residential mortgages, fair value is estimated using the quoted market prices for securities backed by similar loans, adjusted for differences in loan characteristics. The fair value of other types of loans is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using the current rates at which similar loans would be made to borrowers with similar credit ratings and for the same remaining maturities. The carrying amount of accrued interest receivable approximates fair value. Deposits The fair value of demand deposits, savings accounts, NOW accounts, and certain money market deposits is defined as the amount payable on demand at the reporting date. The fair value of fixed-maturity certificates of deposit is estimated using the rates currently offered for deposits of similar remaining maturities. The carrying amount of accrued interest payable approximates fair value. Short-term borrowings and long-term debt Rates currently available to the Corporation for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities are used to estimate fair value of existing debt. The carrying amount of accrued interest payable approximates fair value. 65

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Commitments to extend credit and standby letters of credit The fair value of commitments is estimated using the fees currently charged to enter into similar agreements, taking into account the remaining terms of the agreements and the present creditworthiness of the counterparties. For fixed-rate loan commitments, fair value also considers the difference between current levels of interest rates and the committed rates. The fair value of letters of credit is based on fees currently charged for similar agreements or on the estimated cost to terminate them or otherwise settle the obligations with the counterparties at the reporting date. As of December 31, 1996, these items are immaterial in nature. The estimated fair values of the Corporation's financial instruments are as follows: 1996 1995 -------------------------------------------------- Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value -------------------------------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 33,738 $ 33,738 $ 40,008 $ 40,008 Securities 226,350 227,043 284,517 285,641 Loans, net 563,369 568,480 476,299 479,671 Accrued interest receivable 7,412 7,412 7,146 7,146 Financial liabilities: Deposits 766,92727 768,090 744,897 750,293 Short-term borrowings 14,405 14,405 21,674 21,674 Long-term debt 5,000 4,956 5,000 4,985 Accrued interest payable 3,448 3,448 3,988 3,988 In addition, other assets and liabilities of the Corporation that are not defined as financial instruments are not included in the above disclosures, such as property and equipment. Also, nonfinancial instruments typically not recognized in financial statements nevertheless may have value but are not included in the above disclosures. These include, among other items, the estimated earnings power of core deposit accounts, the earnings potential of loan servicing rights, the earnings potential of the trust operations, the trained work force, customer goodwill and similar items. NOTE 18. FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF HOLDING COMPANY The ability of the Corporation to pay cash dividends to its stockholders and to service its debt is dependent on the receipt of cash dividends from its subsidiaries. State chartered banks have certain statutory and regulatory restrictions on the amount of cash dividends they may pay. As a practical matter, dividend payments are restricted because of the desire to maintain a strong capital position in the bank subsidiaries. 66

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Condensed financial data for First Busey Corporation (holding company only) is presented below. BALANCE SHEETS December 31, ---------------------------- 1996 1995 ---------------------------- ASSETS (Dollars in thousands) Cash and due from subsidiary bank $ 1,254 $ 439 Securities available for sale 1,258 1,034 Investments in subsidiaries: Bank 66,521 62,451 Non-bank 2,295 2,053 Premises and equipment, net 4,931 5,145 Other assets 6,177 6,648 ---------------------------- TOTAL ASSETS $ 82,436 $ 77,770 ============================ LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities: Short-term corporate borrowings $ 7,500 $ 8,500 Short-term ESOP borrowings 500 750 Other liabilities 1,019 742 ---------------------------- TOTAL LIABILITIES 9,019 9,992 ---------------------------- Stockholders' equity before unearned ESOP shares and deferred compensation for stock grants 74,083 68,579 Unearned ESOP shares and deferred (666) (801) ---------------------------- compensation for stock grants STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITy 73,417 67,778 ---------------------------- TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 82,436 $ 77,770 ============================ 67

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STATEMENTS OF INCOME Years Ended December 31, ---------------------------------------- 1996 1995 1994 ---------------------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Operating income: Dividends from subsidiaries: Bank $ 6,000 $ 5,400 $ 4,640 Non-bank 400 300 250 Interest and dividend income 12 27 25 Other income 579 451 473 ---------------------------------------- TOTAL OPERATING INCOME 6,991 6,178 5,388 ---------------------------------------- Expenses: Salaries and employee benefits 1,057 1,025 886 Interest expense 527 740 719 Write-down of real property - - 350 Operating expense 1,064 1,109 938 ---------------------------------------- TOTAL EXPENSES 2,648 2,874 2,893 ---------------------------------------- INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX BENEFIT AND EQUITY IN UNDISTRIBUTED INCOME OF SUBSIDIARIES 4,343 3,304 2,495 Income tax benefit 730 980 737 ---------------------------------------- INCOME BEFORE EQUITY IN UNDISTRIBUTED INCOME OF SUBSIDIARIES 5,073 4,284 3,232 Equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries: Bank 3,983 4,195 4,746 Non-bank 250 296 260 ---------------------------------------- NET INCOME $ 9,306 $ 8,775 $ 8,238 ======================================== 68

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Years Ended December 31, ------------------------------------ 1996 1995 1994 ------------------------------------ (Dollars in thousands) Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net income $ 9,306 $ 8,775 $ 8,238 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 1,206 1,226 1,188 Write-down of real property - - 350 Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries (4,233) (4,491) (5,006) Gain on sales of securities - (54) (2) Loss on disposal of premises and equipment 6 - 1 Changes in assets and liabilities: Increase in other assets (445) (739) (315) Increase in other liabilities 277 27 120 ------------------------------------ NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES 6,117 4,744 4,574 ------------------------------------ Cash Flows from Investing Activities Proceeds from sales of securities available for sale 136 259 5 Purchases of securities available for sale (186) (10) (45) Purchases of premises and equipment (66) (184) (52) Proceeds from capital distribution of subsidiary - 91 1,000 ------------------------------------ NET CASH (USED IN) PROVIDED BY INVESTING ACTIVITIES (116) 156 908 ------------------------------------ Cash Flows from Financing Activities Purchases of treasury stock (605) (705) (1,653) Proceeds from sales of treasury stock 797 353 85 Proceeds from short-term borrowings 1,000 5,750 3,300 Dividends paid (4,378) (3,940) (3,609) Principal payments on short-term borrowings (2,000) (1,250) (3,800) Principal payments on long-term debt - (4,891) (54) ------------------------------------ NET CASH USED IN FINANCING ACTIVITIES (5,186) (4,683) (5,731) ------------------------------------ NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND DUE FROM BANKS 815 217 (249) Cash and due from banks, beginning 439 222 471 ------------------------------------ Cash and due from banks, ending $ 1,254 $ 439 $ 222 ==================================== 69

FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued) Years Ended December 31, ----------------------------------- 1996 1995 1994 ----------------------------------- (Dollars in thousands) Supplemental Schedule of Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Reduction of ESOP debt $ 250 $ 250 $ 400 ================================== Change in unrealized gain on securities available for sale - holding company $ 174 $ 259 $ 17 ================================== Increase in deferred income taxes attributable to the unrealized gain on securities available for sale - holding company $ (61) $ (91) $ (6) ================================== Change in unrealized gain (loss) on securities available for sale - subsidiaries $ 79 $ 3,767 $ (853) ================================== 70

MANAGEMENT REPORT BUSEY BANK AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1996 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Management of Busey Bank is responsible for the preparation, integrity and fair presentation of its published financial statements as of December 31, 1996, and for the year then ended. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and, as such, include amounts, some of which are based on judgments and estimates of management. INTERNAL CONTROLS Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining an effective internal control structure over financial reporting. The system contains monitoring mechanisms, and actions are taken to correct deficiencies identified. There are inherent limitations in the effectiveness of any system of internal control, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of controls. Accordingly, even an effective internal control system can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation. Further, because of changes in conditions, the effectiveness of an internal control system may vary over time. Management assessed its internal control structure over financial reporting as of December 31, 1996. This assessment was based on criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting described in "Internal Control - Integrated Framework" issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this assessment, management believes that Busey Bank maintained an effective internal control structure over financial reporting as of December 31, 1996. DESIGNATED LAWS Management is also responsible for compliance with the federal and state laws and regulations relating to safety and soundness, including those designated laws and regulations regarding dividend restrictions and loans to insiders. Based on our assessment, management believes Busey Bank complied, in all material respects, with those designated laws and regulations for the year ended December 31, 1996. //Douglas C. Mills// ----------------------------------------- Douglas C. Mills, Chairman of the Board First Busey Corporation (Holding Company) //David Kuhl// ----------------------------------------- P. David Kuhl, President Busey Bank 71

[McGladrey & Pullen, LLP Letterhead] INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANT'S REPORT To the Board of Directors Busey Bank Urbana, Illinois We have examined management's assertion that Busey Bank maintained a system of internal control over financial reporting which is designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Bank's management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation of reliable published financial statements as of December 31, 1996, included in the accompanying management report. Our examination was made in accordance with standards established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and, accordingly, included obtaining an understanding of the internal control structure over financial reporting, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of the internal control structure, and such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our examination provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. Because of inherent limitations in any internal control structure, errors or irregularities may occur and not be detected. Also, projections of any evaluation of the internal control structure over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the internal control structure may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. In our opinion, management's assertions that Busey Bank maintained a system of internal control over financial reporting which is designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Bank's management and Board of Directors regarding the preparation of reliable published financial statements as of December 31, 1996, is fairly stated, in all material respects, based upon criteria established in "Internal Control - Integrated Framework" issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). //MCGLADREY & PULLEN, LLP// Champaign, Illinois January 31, 1997 72

EXHIBIT 21.1 LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES OF FIRST BUSEY CORPORATION December 31, 1996 Busey Bank First Busey Trust & Investment Co. First Busey Resources, Inc.

EXHIBIT 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (No. 33-30095) of our report, dated January 31, 1997, with respect to the financial statements of First Busey Corporation and Subsidiaries, appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996. MCGLADREY & PULLEN, LLP Champaign, Illinois March 18, 1997