UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE
COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

x		QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

		FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED June 30, 2005

OR

¨		TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

		FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM TO .

Commission File Number 0-20800

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Washington		91-1572822
(State or other jurisdiction of		(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)		Identification No.)

111 North Wall Street, Spokane, Washington 99201
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

(509) 458-3711
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Sections 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 whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes x No ¨

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock as of the latest practicable date:

Class		Outstanding as of July 29, 2005

Common Stock ($1.00 par value)		23,095,815

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

FORM 10-Q

For the Quarter Ended June 30, 2005

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I - Financial Information

Item 1 -		Financial Statements (Unaudited).

		Consolidated Balance Sheets

		Consolidated Statements of Income

		Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

		Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

		Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Item 2 -		Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Item 3 -		Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

Item 4 -		Controls and Procedures.

PART II - Other Information

Item 1 -		Legal Proceedings.

Item 2 -		Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.

Item 3 -		Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

Item 4 -		Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

Item 5 -		Other Information.

Item 6 -		Exhibits.

Signatures

PART I - Financial Information

Item 1 - Financial Statements

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Unaudited)

	June 30,			December 31,
	2005			2004
	(Dollars in thousands)
ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents:
Interest bearing	$	11,000		$	0
Non-interest bearing and vault	111,849			93,187
Restricted	3,496			1,281
Investment securities and mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”):
Available for sale	1,996,804			2,157,136
Held to maturity	49,908			47,449
Loans receivable, net	4,181,265			4,251,877
Loans held for sale	15,559			14,224
Accrued interest receivable	28,664			27,479
Real estate owned and other collateralized assets, net	2,463			1,865
Office properties and equipment, net	80,582			78,402
Bank-owned life insurance (“BOLI”)	95,957			93,790
Goodwill	112,391			112,398
Other intangible assets	18,736			19,848
Mortgage servicing rights, net	6,381			4,078
Prepaid expenses and other assets, net	28,757			39,210
Total assets	$	6,743,812		$	6,942,224
LIABILITIES:
Deposits	$	4,200,196		$	3,863,296
Advances from Federal Home Loan Bank Seattle (“FHLB Seattle”)	1,317,141			1,635,933
Securities sold subject to repurchase agreements and funds purchased	536,152			780,012
Other borrowings	111,152			131,822
Cashiers checks issued and payable	11,585			3,213
Borrowers’ reserves for taxes and insurance	2,006			2,480
Accrued interest payable	16,699			14,842
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	45,394			40,782
Total liabilities	6,240,325			6,472,380
Commitments and Contingencies
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Preferred stock, $1 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding	0			0
Common stock, $1 par value; 40,000,000 shares authorized; 23,084,300 and 22,936,154 shares issued and outstanding	23,084			22,936
Additional paid-in capital	395,865			393,245
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Unrealized losses on investment securities and MBS available-for-sale, net of deferred income taxes of $6,079 and $5,467	(10,494		)	(9,470		)
Retained earnings	95,032			63,133
Total shareholders’ equity	503,487			469,844
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	6,743,812		$	6,942,224

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

Consolidated Statements of Income

(Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
	June 30,						June 30,
	2005			2004			2005			2004
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Interest income:
Loans	$	72,619		$	55,725		$	140,662		$	108,059
MBS	21,858			20,055			44,940			39,343
Investments and cash equivalents	579			1,460			1,520			3,229
Total interest income	95,056			77,240			187,122			150,631

Interest expense:
Deposits	21,105			12,386			39,428			24,537
Short-term borrowings	7,391			4,877			16,365			8,711
Long-term borrowings	12,746			11,253			24,697			22,970
Total interest expense	41,242			28,516			80,490			56,218
Net interest income	53,814			48,724			106,632			94,413

Provision for losses on loans	(3,400		)	(3,000		)	(7,150		)	(5,850		)
Net interest income after provision for losses on loans	50,414			45,724			99,482			88,563

Non-interest income:
Fees and service charges	8,205			8,434			15,608			16,720
Mortgage banking operations	6,106			1,769			11,478			2,963
Loan servicing fees	103			160			240			306
Net gains (losses) on sales of securities	0			848			(57		)	3,307
Real estate owned and other collateralized assets operations	99			(341		)	211			(316		)
BOLI	1,107			1,084			2,167			2,253
Gain related to early repayment of debt	0			0			645			0
Other noninterest expense	(215		)	(145		)	(248		)	(526		)

Total non-interest income	15,405			11,809			30,044			24,707
Non-interest expenses	41,602			37,088			81,249			74,807
Income before income taxes	24,217			20,445			48,277			38,463
Income tax provision	(8,209		)	(6,962		)	(16,378		)	(12,996		)
Net income	$	16,008		$	13,483		$	31,899		$	25,467
Earnings per share - basic	$	0.69		$	0.60		$	1.39		$	1.13
Earnings per share - diluted	$	0.69		$	0.58		$	1.37		$	1.10
Weighted average shares outstanding - basic	23,065,309			22,589,109			23,027,803			22,471,725

Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted	23,348,398			23,100,053			23,333,495			23,051,526

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

	Six Months Ended
	June 30,
	2005			2004
	(Dollars in thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income	$	31,899		$	25,467
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Provisions for losses on loans and real estate owned	7,150			5,855
Stock dividends on FHLB Seattle stock	(303		)	(1,373		)
Net gain on sales of loans, investment securities and MBS	(8,039		)	(4,526		)
Other gains and losses	(16,563		)	83
Change in cash surrender value of BOLI	(2,167		)	(2,253		)
Depreciation and amortization	9,133			7,475
Change in:
Accrued interest receivable	(1,185		)	(1,109		)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	9,018			4,143
Cashiers checks issued and payable	8,372			1,361
Accrued interest payable	1,857			1,304
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	3,112			(7,542		)
Proceeds from sales of loans originated for sale	74,815			85,820
Loans originated for sale	(73,175		)	(84,601		)
Net cash provided by operating activities	43,924			30,104

Cash flows from investing activities:
Change in restricted cash	(2,215		)	201
Loans funded and purchased	(1,556,810		)	(1,304,323		)
Loan principal received	1,150,332			1,023,869
Proceeds from sales of other loans	472,682			0
Purchase of investment securities	(5,764		)	(229,460		)
Proceeds from maturities of investment securities	380			225,285
Proceeds from sales of investment securities	14,844			95,603
Cash and cash equivalents acquired as part of mergers	0			44,894
Purchase of mortgage-backed securities	(153,188		)	(710,378		)
Principal payments on mortgage-backed securities	181,294			188,378
Proceeds from sales of mortgage-backed securities	115,837			259,308
Purchase of office properties and equipment	(6,414		)	(5,996		)
Sales of office properties and equipment	249			0
Improvements and other changes to real estate owned	(1,515		)	213
Proceeds from sales and liquidation of real estate owned	1,853			1,633
Net cash provided (used) in investing activities	211,565			(410,773		)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

	Six Months Ended
	June 30,
	2005			2004
	(Dollars in thousands)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net change in checking, regular savings and money market deposits	$	69,473		$	97,568
Proceeds from issuance of time deposits	1,178,569			1,068,064
Payments for maturing time deposits	(946,443		)	(1,031,191		)
Interest credited to deposits	35,301			23,258
Advances from FHLB Seattle	425,229			518,464
Repayment of advances from FHLB Seattle	(726,515		)	(569,823		)
Net change in securities sold subject to repurchase agreements and funds purchased	(243,860		)	296,125
Repayment of other borrowings	(19,000		)	(280		)
Payments for fractional shares and certain merger costs	0			(240		)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options, net of repurchases	1,968			3,914
Deferred financing costs	(75		)	0
Other	(474		)	1,925
Net cash provided (used) in financing activities	(225,827		)	407,784

Net change in cash and cash equivalents	29,662			27,115
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	93,187			65,479

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	122,849		$	92,594

Supplemental disclosures:
Cash paid during the period for:
Interest	$	78,633		$	52,800
Income taxes	563			11,105

Noncash financing and investing activities:
Loans converted into real estate owned and other collateralized assets	709			1,794
Common stock issued upon business combination	0			145,166

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income

(Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
	June 30,						June 30,
	2005			2004			2005			2004
	(Dollars in thousands)

Net income	$	16,008		$	13,483		$	31,899		$	25,467

Other comprehensive income:
Change in unrealized gains (losses) on investment securities and MBS available-for-sale	24,820			(55,670		)	(1,636		)	(24,845		)
Less deferred income taxes	(9,180		)	19,485			612			8,696

Net other comprehensive income (loss)	15,640			(36,185		)	(1,024		)	(16,149		)

Comprehensive income (loss)	$	31,648		$	(22,702	)	$	30,875		$	9,318

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

1. Basis of Presentation:

The foregoing unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X as promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, these financial statements do not include all of the disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. These unaudited interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2004. In the opinion of management, the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements furnished herein include all adjustments, all of which are of a normal recurring nature, necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities known to exist as of the date the financial statements are published, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Uncertainties with respect to such estimates and assumptions are inherent in the preparation of Sterling Financial Corporation’s (“Sterling’s”) consolidated financial statements; accordingly, it is possible that the actual results could differ from these estimates and assumptions, which could have a material effect on the reported amounts of Sterling’s consolidated financial position and results of operations.

2. Other Borrowings:

The components of other borrowings are as follows (in thousands):

	June 30, 2005		December 31, 2004

Term note payable(1)	$	0	$	19,000
Sterling obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred capital securities of subsidiary trusts holding solely junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures of Sterling(2)	108,696		108,685
Other(3)	2,456		4,137
Total	$	111,152	$	131,822

(1) At December 31, 2004, Sterling had a $19 million variable-rate term note with U.S. Bank, N.A. (“U.S. Bank”). On March 31, 2005, Sterling repaid $14 million of principal on this borrowing. On April 29, 2005, Sterling repaid the remaining balance of this borrowing.

On May 18, 2005, Sterling entered into a $40 million seven-year variable-rate revolving credit agreement (the “Credit Facility”) with Bank of Scotland. Amounts loaned pursuant to the Credit Facility bear Eurodollar interest at the LIBOR rate (as defined in the Credit Facility) plus a specified margin based on Sterling’s credit ratings and compliance with the terms of the Credit Facility. The Credit Facility is secured by a portion of the preferred stock of Sterling’s wholly owned subsidiary Sterling Savings Bank. The Credit Facility contains representations and warranties, and negative and affirmative covenants by Sterling, including financial covenants and restrictions on certain actions by Sterling, such as Sterling’s ability to incur debt, make investments and make acquisitions of other entities. Sterling is obligated to commence repayment of any loan principal on the third anniversary of the date Sterling entered into the Credit Facility, and is permitted to prepay loan principal without penalty. No amounts borrowed and repaid under the Credit Facility may be reborrowed. As of June 30, 2005, no funds had been advanced to Sterling under the Credit Facility. For further details, see Sterling’s Form 8-K filed May 20, 2005 at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

(2) Sterling raises capital from time to time through the formation and acquisition of trusts (the “Trusts”), which issue capital securities (“Trust Preferred Securities”) to investors. These Trusts are business trusts in which Sterling owns all of the common equity. The proceeds from the sale of the Trust Preferred Securities are used to purchase junior subordinated deferrable interest debentures (“Junior Subordinated Debentures”) issued by Sterling. Sterling’s obligations under the Junior Subordinated Debentures and related documents, taken together, constitute a full and unconditional guarantee by Sterling of the Trusts’ obligations under the Trust Preferred Securities. As of June 30, 2005, Sterling had seven such Trusts. The Trusts are not consolidated and the Trust Preferred Securities and common stock are treated as debt of Sterling. The common stock issued by the Trusts is recorded as other assets in the consolidated balance sheets, and totaled $3.3 million at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004. The Trust Preferred Securities have been structured to qualify as Tier 1 capital, subject to certain limitations. The Junior Subordinated Debentures and related Trust Preferred Securities are redeemable, under certain conditions, at Sterling’s option. Interest is paid quarterly or semi-annually. Details of the Trusts, including the weighted average rate, are as follows:

Contractual

Mandatorily

Rate at

Carrying

Maturity

Redeemable Capital

June 30,

Value (in

Subsidiary Issuer

Issue Date

Date

Call Date

Security

Rate Index

2005

thousands)

Sterling Capital

June 2003

Sept 2033

Sept 2008

Floating Rate

3 month LIBOR

Trust VI

Capital Securities

plus 3.20%

6.61

10,310

Sterling Capital

May 2003

May 2033

June 2008

Floating Rate

3 month LIBOR

Statutory Trust V

Capital Securities

plus 3.25%

6.72

20,619

Sterling Capital

May 2003

May 2033

May 2008

Floating Rate

3 month LIBOR

Trust IV

Preferred Securities

plus 3.15%

6.42

10,310

Sterling Capital

April 2003

April 2033

April 2008

Floating Rate

3 month LIBOR

Trust III

Capital Securities

plus 3.25%

6.46

14,433

Klamath First Capital

April 2002

April 2032

April 2007

Floating Rate

6 month LIBOR

Trust II

Capital Securities

plus 3.70%

7.11

13,139

Klamath First Capital

July 2001

July 2031

June 2006

Floating Rate

6 month LIBOR

Trust I

Capital Securities

plus 3.75%

6.71

15,142

Sterling Capital

July 2001

July 2031

June 2006

10.25% Cumulative

Trust II

Capital Securities

Fixed

10.25

24,743

7.50

108,696

(3) During 2002, Sterling financed the sale of certain loans to an unrelated party. Since the underlying loans served as collateral on the loan to the purchaser, this sale was accounted for as a financing. At June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, $2.5 million and $4.1 million, respectively, remained outstanding on the financing.

3. Earnings Per Share:

The following table presents the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

	Three Months Ended June 30,
	2005					2004
	Net		Weighted	Per Share		Net		Weighted	Per Share
	Income		Avg. Shares	Amount		Income		Avg. Shares	Amount

Basic computations	$	16,008,000	23,065,309	$	0.69	$	13,483,000	22,589,109	$	0.60

Effect of dilutive securities:
Common stock options	0		259,081	0.00		0		510,944	(0.02		)
Contingently issuable shares	0		24,008	0.00		0		0	0.00

Diluted computations	$	16,008,000	23,348,398	$	0.69	$	13,483,000	23,100,053	$	0.58

Antidilutive options not included in diluted earnings per share			304,000					11,000

	Six Months Ended June 30,
	2005						2004
	Net		Weighted	Per Share			Net		Weighted	Per Share
	Income		Avg. Shares	Amount			Income		Avg. Shares	Amount

Basic computations	$	31,899,000	23,027,803	$	1.39		$	25,467,000	22,471,725	$	1.13

Effect of dilutive securities:
Common stock options	0		281,684	(0.02		)	0		579,801	(0.03		)
Contingently issuable shares	0		24,008	0.00			0		0	0.00

Diluted computations	$	31,899,000	23,333,495	$	1.37		$	25,467,000	23,051,526	$	1.10

Antidilutive options not included in diluted earnings per share			304,000						11,000

4. Non-Interest Expenses:

The following table details the components of Sterling’s total non-interest expenses:

	Three Months Ended					Six Months Ended
	June 30,					June 30,
	2005			2004		2005		2004
	(Dollars in thousands)

Employee compensation and benefits	$		22,334	$	19,118	$	44,351	$	38,324
Occupancy and equipment	6,617			5,929		12,663		11,147
Depreciation	2,106			1,785		4,121		3,523
Amortization of core deposit intangibles	555			555		1,111		1,111
Advertising	2,345			1,840		4,417		3,707
Data processing	3,037			2,826		6,212		4,899
Insurance	326			289		630		567
Legal and accounting	812			1,019		1,788		1,598
Travel and entertainment	1,225			1,073		2,182		1,936
Goodwill litigation costs	121			25		189		140
Merger and acquisition costs	0			922		0		4,835
Other	2,124			1,707		3,585		3,020

Total	$	41,602		$	37,088	$	81,249	$	74,807

5. Segment Information:

For purposes of measuring and reporting the financial results, Sterling is divided into the following five business segments:

• The Community Banking segment consists of the operations conducted by Sterling’s subsidiary, Sterling Savings Bank.

• The Residential Mortgage Banking segment originates and sells servicing-retained and servicing-released residential loans through loan production offices in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Utah primarily through Sterling Savings Bank’s subsidiary Action Mortgage Company (“Action Mortgage”).

• The Commercial Mortgage Banking segment originates, sells and services commercial real estate loans and participation interests in commercial real estate loans through offices in Washington, Oregon, Arizona and California primarily through Sterling Savings Bank’s subsidiary INTERVEST-Mortgage Investment Company.

• The Retail Brokerage segment markets fixed income and equity products, mutual funds, fixed and variable annuities, insurance and other financial products within the Sterling Savings Bank financial service center network through sales representatives of Sterling Savings Bank’s subsidiary Harbor Financial Services, Inc.

• The Other and Eliminations segment represents the parent company expenses and intercompany eliminations of revenue and expenses.

The following table presents certain financial information regarding Sterling’s segments and provides a reconciliation to Sterling’s consolidated totals for the periods presented:

	As of and for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2005
				Residential			Commercial
	Community			Mortgage			Mortgage			Retail			Other and
	Banking			Banking			Banking			Brokerage			Eliminations			Total
	(Dollars in thousands)

Interest income	$	90,062		$	2,689		$	2,306		$	0		$	(1	)	$	95,056
Interest expense	(39,329		)	0			0			0			(1,913		)	(41,242		)
Net interest income (expense)	50,733			2,689			2,306			0			(1,914		)	53,814
Provision for loan losses	(3,400		)	0			0			0			0			(3,400		)
Noninterest income	14,273			2,352			1,258			866			(3,344		)	15,405
Noninterest expense	(34,519		)	(4,219		)	(1,761		)	(834		)	(269		)	(41,602		)
Income before income taxes	$	27,087		$	822		$	1,803		$	32		$	(5,527	)	$	24,217

Total assets	$	6,807,155		$	19,697		$	19,288		$	763		$	(103,091	)	$	6,743,812

	As of and for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2004
				Residential			Commercial
	Community			Mortgage			Mortgage			Retail			Other and
	Banking			Banking			Banking			Brokerage			Eliminations			Total
	(Dollars in thousands)

Interest income	$	73,094		$	2,253		$	1,666		$	0		$	227		$	77,240
Interest expense	(26,521		)	0			0			0			(1,995		)	(28,516		)
Net interest income (expense)	46,573			2,253			1,666			0			(1,768		)	48,724
Provision for loan losses	(3,000		)	0			0			0			0			(3,000		)
Noninterest income	11,536			2,063			831			903			(3,524		)	11,809
Noninterest expense	(31,874		)	(3,448		)	(1,002		)	(721		)	(43		)	(37,088		)
Income before income taxes	$	23,235		$	868		$	1,495		$	182		$	(5,335	)	$	20,445

Total assets	$	6,295,133		$	18,488		$	16,111		$	1,345		$	(71,966	)	$	6,259,111

	As of and for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2005
				Residential			Commercial
	Community			Mortgage			Mortgage			Retail			Other and
	Banking			Banking			Banking			Brokerage			Eliminations			Total
	(Dollars in thousands)

Interest income	$	177,918		$	5,108		$	4,097		$	0		$	(1	)	$	187,122
Interest expense	(76,627		)	0			0			0			(3,863		)	(80,490		)
Net interest income (expense)	101,291			5,108			4,097			0			(3,864		)	106,632
Provision for loan losses	(7,150		)	0			0			0			0			(7,150		)
Noninterest income	27,923			4,581			2,689			1,671			(6,820		)	30,044
Noninterest expense	(68,107		)	(8,384		)	(3,126		)	(1,624		)	(8		)	(81,249		)
Income before income taxes	$	53,957		$	1,305		$	3,660		$	47		$	(10,692	)	$	48,277

Total assets	$	6,807,155		$	19,697		$	19,288		$	763		$	(103,091	)	$	6,743,812

	As of and for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2004
				Residential			Commercial
	Community			Mortgage			Mortgage			Retail			Other and
	Banking			Banking			Banking			Brokerage			Eliminations			Total
	(Dollars in thousands)

Interest income	$	142,483		$	4,282		$	3,413		$	1		$	452		$	150,631
Interest expense	(52,227		)	0			0			0			(3,991		)	(56,218		)
Net interest income (expense)	90,256			4,282			3,413			1			(3,539		)	94,413
Provision for loan losses	(5,850		)	0			0			0			0			(5,850		)
Noninterest income	23,744			3,847			1,214			1,859			(5,957		)	24,707
Noninterest expense	(64,252		)	(6,633		)	(2,157		)	(1,471		)	(294		)	(74,807		)
Income before income taxes	$	43,898		$	1,496		$	2,470		$	389		$	(9,790	)	$	38,463

Total assets	$	6,295,133		$	18,488		$	16,111		$	1,345		$	(71,966	)	$	6,259,111

6. Stock Options:

As permitted by Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” (“SFAS No. 123”), Sterling elected to retain the compensation measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (“APB No. 25”), and related interpretations, for stock options. Under APB No. 25, compensation cost is recognized at the measurement date in the amount, if any, that the quoted market price of Sterling’s common stock exceeds the option exercise price. Sterling grants its common stock options to employees with exercise prices equal to the market price of Sterling’s common stock on the measurement date. Thus, no compensation cost is recognized.

Sterling has chosen not to record compensation expense using fair value measurement provisions in the statement of income. See New Accounting Policies for guidance on the effect of the FASB’s revision of SFAS No. 123. Had compensation cost for Sterling’s plans been determined based on the fair value at the grant dates for awards under the plans, Sterling’s reported net income and earnings per share would have been changed to the pro forma amounts indicated below:

	Three Months Ended						Six Months Ended
	June 30,						June 30,
	2005			2004			2005			2004
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

Reported net income	$	16,008		$	13,483		$	31,899		$	25,467
Add back: Stock-based employee compensation expense, net of related tax effects	0			0			0			0
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects	(19		)	(1,009		)	(54		)	(2,018		)
Pro forma	$	15,989		$	12,474		$	31,845		$	23,449

Basic earnings per share:
Reported earnings per share	$	0.69		$	0.60		$	1.39		$	1.13
Stock-based employee compensation, fair value	0.00			(0.05		)	(0.01		)	(0.09		)
Pro forma earnings per share	$	0.69		$	0.55		$	1.38		$	1.04

Diluted earnings per share:
Reported earnings per share	$	0.69		$	0.58		$	1.37		$	1.10
Stock-based employee compensation, fair value	(0.01		)	(0.04		)	(0.01		)	(0.08		)
Pro forma earnings per share	$	0.68		$	0.54		$	1.36		$	1.02

A significant portion of the options granted in 2004 vested in 2004. The fair value of each option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model based upon the following weighted average assumptions:

	Six Months Ended
	June 30,
	2005(1)	2004

Expected volatility	N/A	85% - 132%
Expected lives (in years)	N/A	4 - 10
Risk free interest rates	N/A	2.86% - 6.52%
Expected forfeiture rate	N/A	0%
Annual dividend yield	N/A	0%

(1) In 2005, no stock options have been issued.

7. New Accounting Policies:

In December 2004, the FASB issued SFAS No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment,” which established accounting standards for transactions involving the issuance of equity instruments to employees for services rendered. This statement is a revision of SFAS No. 123, and supersedes APB No. 25. This statement requires the estimation and recognition of the grant date fair value of stock options issued to employees. This statement is effective for Sterling as of January 1, 2006. Management is currently evaluating the effect of this new standard.

In September 2004, the FASB agreed to issue additional guidance on the application of Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) Issue 03-1, “The Meaning of Other-Than-Temporary Impairment and its Application to Certain Investments.” The FASB also deferred the measurement and recognition guidance contained in EITF Issue 03-1. In June 2005, the FASB revised EITF Issue 03-1 by deleting the requirement for investors to demonstrate the ability and intent to hold securities until recovery of impairment. Sterling will continue to apply relevant other-than-temporary guidance to its investment securities and MBS portfolio, as applicable.

In December 2003, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants issued Statement of Position No. 03-3, “Accounting for Certain Loans or Debt Securities Acquired in a Transfer” (“SOP No. 03-3”). SOP No. 03-3 addresses accounting for differences between contractual cash flows and cash flows expected to be collected from an investor’s initial investment in loans acquired in a transfer if those differences are attributable, at least in part, to credit quality. SOP No. 03-3 is effective for loans acquired in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2004. The implementation of SOP No. 03-3 did not have a material effect on Sterling’s consolidated financial statements.

8. Derivatives and Hedging:

Sterling, through its subsidiary Action Mortgage, enters into interest rate lock commitments (“rate locks”) to prospective residential mortgage borrowers. Action Mortgage hedges interest rate risk (“IRR”) by entering into non-binding (“best-efforts”) forward sales agreements with third parties. In addition, to improve and protect the profit margin on loans sold into the secondary market, Action Mortgage hedges IRR by entering into binding (“mandatory”) forward sales agreements on MBS with third parties.

The risks inherent in such mandatory forward sales agreements include the risk that, if for any reason Action Mortgage does not close and sell the loans in question, it is nonetheless obligated to deliver MBS to the counterparty on the agreed terms. Action Mortgage could incur significant costs in acquiring replacement loans or MBS and such costs could have a material adverse impact on mortgage banking operations in future periods, especially in rising interest rate environments.

Rate locks and forward sales agreements on held-for-sale loans are considered to be derivatives. Sterling has recorded the estimated fair values of these rate locks and forward sales agreements on its balance sheet in either other assets or other liabilities. Changes in the fair values of these derivative instruments are recorded in income from mortgage banking operations in the income statement as the changes occur. The estimated fair value of rate locks and forward sales commitments were greater than the contracted amounts at June 30, 2005, which resulted in assets of $295,000 and $64,000, respectively. At December 31, 2004, rate locks and forward sales commitments were assets of $76,000 and $12,000, respectively.

9. Subsequent Events:

On July 8, 2005, Sterling announced that it had received regulatory approval from the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions to convert Sterling Savings Bank, its wholly-owned subsidiary, from a state-chartered savings and loan association to a state-chartered commercial bank. Sterling also announced that the approval from the Federal Reserve Board to convert Sterling from a savings and loan holding company to a bank holding company had been received. The charter conversion was effective as of July 8, 2005.

On July 26, 2005, Sterling announced a 3 for 2 stock split, payable on August 31, 2005 to shareholders of record on August 17, 2005. This split will be effected in the form of a 50% stock dividend. Sterling also announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per common share, payable on October 14, 2005 to shareholders of record as of September 30, 2005.

Item 2 – Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation

STERLING FINANCIAL CORPORATION

Comparison of the Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2005 and 2004

This report contains forward-looking statements. For a discussion about such statements, including the risks and uncertainties inherent therein, see “Forward-Looking Statements.” Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes presented elsewhere in this report and in Sterling’s 2004 annual report on Form 10-K.

General

As of June 30, 2005, Sterling Financial Corporation (“Sterling”) was a unitary savings and loan holding company, the significant operating subsidiary of which was Sterling Savings Bank. Effective July 8, 2005, Sterling converted to a Bank Holding Company and Sterling Savings Bank converted to a Washington State chartered commercial bank. See Note 9 of “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.” The principal operating subsidiaries of Sterling Savings Bank are Action Mortgage Company (“Action Mortgage”), INTERVEST-Mortgage Investment Company (“INTERVEST”) and Harbor Financial Services, Inc. (“Harbor Financial”). Sterling Savings Bank commenced operations in 1983 as a Washington State-chartered federally insured stock savings and loan association headquartered in Spokane, Washington.

Sterling provides personalized, quality financial services to its customers as exemplified by its “Hometown Helpful” philosophy and “Perfect Fit” banking products. Sterling believes that this dedication to personalized service has enabled it to grow both its retail deposit base and its lending portfolio in the Pacific Northwest region. With $6.74 billion in total assets at June 30, 2005, Sterling originates loans and attracts Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) insured deposits from the general public through 137 financial service centers located in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana. Sterling also originates loans through Action Mortgage residential loan production offices in the four-state area, as well as Utah, and through INTERVEST commercial real estate lending offices in Washington, Oregon, Arizona and California. Sterling also markets fixed income and equity products, mutual funds, fixed and variable annuities and many other financial products through Harbor Financial service representatives located throughout Sterling’s financial service center network.

Sterling continues to implement its strategy to become the leading community bank in the Pacific Northwest by increasing its commercial real estate, business banking, consumer and construction lending while also increasing its retail deposits, particularly transaction accounts. Commercial real estate, business banking, consumer and construction loans generally produce higher yields than residential loans. Management believes that a community bank mix of assets and liabilities will enhance its net interest income (“NII”) (the difference between the interest earned on loans and investments and the interest paid on deposits and borrowings) and will increase other fee income, although there can be no assurance in this regard. Such loans, however, generally involve a higher degree of risk than financing residential real estate. Sterling’s revenues are derived primarily from interest earned on loans and mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”), fees and service charges, and mortgage banking operations (“MBO”). During the period ended June 30, 2005, the operations of Sterling Savings Bank and savings institutions generally, were influenced significantly by general economic conditions and by policies of its primary regulatory authorities, the Office of Thrift Supervision (“OTS”), the FDIC and the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (“Washington Supervisor”).

Executive Summary and Highlights

Sterling’s earnings of $16.0 million, or $0.69 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2005 represented a 19% increase over earnings of $13.5 million, or $0.58 per diluted share, for the prior year’s comparable quarter. For the six months ended June 30, 2005, Sterling recorded earnings of $31.9 million, or $1.37 per diluted share, a 25% increase over earnings of $25.5 million or $1.10 per diluted share for the prior year’s comparable six month period.

NII of $53.8 million and $106.6 million represented a 10% and 13% increase over the respective 2004 amounts, primarily due to increased average loan and MBS volumes. Sterling’s net interest margin for the three and six months ended June 30, 2005 decreased by 14 and 12 basis points, respectively, from the comparable 2004 periods. The compression in net interest margin over the prior year periods can be attributed to a greater increase in the cost of deposits versus the yield on loans, and a decrease in income resulting from the Federal Home Loan Bank Seattle’s suspension of its dividends.

MBO income increased to $6.1 million for the June 30, 2005 quarter, up from $1.8 million for the same period in 2004. Sterling sold nearly $403 million in residential permanent and commercial real estate loans in the quarter, compared to just over $57.3 million in the June 2004 quarter. For the six months ended June 30, 2005, MBO income increased to $11.5 million from $3.0 million for the same period in 2004, as a result of increased loan sales.

Sterling’s loan originations for the quarter ended June 30, 2005 were $908.1 million, compared with $786.4 million in the second quarter of 2004, a 15% increase. The growth occurred in construction, residential and business lending. Sterling’s loan originations for the six months ended June 30, 2005 were $1.73 billion, compared with $1.38 billion for same period in 2004, an increase of 26%.

Highlights for the second quarter of 2005 were as follows:

• Earnings per diluted share were $0.69 for the quarter ended June 30, 2005, compared to $0.58 per diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2004, a 19% increase.

• Deposits increased to $4.20 billion, up $599.6 million, or 17%, year-over-year.

• Return on average equity was 13.4% for the quarter ended June 30, 2005.

• Return on average assets was 0.92% for the quarter ended June 30, 2005.

• Equity to assets ratio was 7.47% at June 30, 2005.

• Loan production for the quarter was $908.1 million, up 15% over the June 2004 quarter.

• Construction lending nearly doubled over the prior year to $424.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2005.

Company Growth

Sterling intends to continue to pursue an aggressive growth strategy to become the leading community bank in the Pacific Northwest. This strategy may include acquiring other financial businesses or branches thereof, or other substantial assets or deposit liabilities. Sterling may not be successful in identifying further acquisition candidates, integrating acquisitions or preventing such acquisitions from having an adverse effect on Sterling. There is significant competition for acquisitions in Sterling’s market area, and Sterling may not be able to acquire other businesses on attractive terms. Furthermore, the success of Sterling’s growth strategy will depend on increasing and maintaining sufficient levels of regulatory capital, obtaining necessary regulatory approvals, generating appropriate growth and the existence of favorable economic and market conditions. There can be no assurance that Sterling will be successful in implementing its growth strategy.

Critical Accounting Policies

The accounting and reporting policies of Sterling conform to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) and to general practices within the banking industry. The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Sterling’s management has identified the accounting policies described below as those that, due to the judgments, estimates and assumptions inherent in those policies are critical to an understanding of Sterling’s Consolidated Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis.

Income Recognition. Sterling recognizes interest income by methods that conform to general accounting practices within the banking industry. In the event management believes collection of all or a portion of contractual interest on a loan has become doubtful, which generally occurs after the loan is 90 days past due, Sterling discontinues the accrual of interest and any previously accrued interest recognized in income deemed uncollectible is reversed. Interest received on nonperforming loans is included in income only if principal recovery is reasonably assured. A nonperforming loan is restored to accrual status when it is brought current, has performed in accordance with contractual terms for a reasonable period of time, and the collectibility of the total contractual principal and interest is no longer in doubt.

Allowance For Loan Losses. In general, determining the amount of the allowance for loan losses requires significant judgment and the use of estimates by management. Sterling maintains an allowance for loan losses to absorb probable losses in the loan portfolio based on a quarterly analysis of the portfolio and expected future losses. This analysis is designed to determine an appropriate level and allocation of the allowance for losses among loan types by considering factors affecting loan losses, including specific losses, levels and trends in impaired and nonperforming loans, historical loan loss experience, current national and local economic conditions, volume, growth and composition of the portfolio, regulatory guidance and other relevant factors. Management monitors the loan portfolio to evaluate the adequacy of the allowance. The allowance can increase or decrease each quarter based upon the results of management’s analysis.

The amount of the allowance for the various loan types represents management’s estimate of expected losses from existing loans based upon specific allocations for individual lending relationships and historical loss experience for each category of homogeneous loans. The allowance for loan losses related to impaired loans is based on discounted cash flows using the loan’s initial effective interest rate or the fair value of the collateral for certain collateral dependent loans. This evaluation requires management to make estimates of the amounts and timing of future cash flows on impaired loans, which consist primarily of non-accrual and restructured loans.

Individual loan reviews are based upon specific quantitative and qualitative criteria, including the size of the loan, loan quality ratings, value of collateral, repayment ability of borrowers, and historical experience factors. The historical experience factors utilized and allowances for homogeneous loans (such as residential mortgage loans, personal loans, etc.) are collectively evaluated based upon historical loss experience, trends in losses and delinquencies, growth of loans in particular markets, and known changes in economic conditions in each particular lending market.

While management uses available information to provide for loan losses, the ultimate collectibility of a substantial portion of the loan portfolio and the need for future additions to the allowance will be based on changes in economic conditions and other relevant factors. A slowdown in economic activity could adversely affect cash flows for both commercial and individual borrowers, as a result of which Sterling could experience increases in nonperforming assets, delinquencies and losses on loans. There can be no assurance that the allowance for loan losses will be adequate to cover all losses, but management believes the allowance for loan losses was adequate at June 30, 2005.

Investment Securities and MBS. Assets in the investment securities and MBS portfolios are initially recorded at cost, which includes any premiums and discounts. Sterling amortizes premiums and discounts as an adjustment to interest income using the level interest yield method over the estimated life of the security. The cost of investment securities sold, and any resulting gain or loss, is based on the specific identification method.

The loans underlying Sterling’s MBS are subject to the prepayment of principal. The rate at which prepayments are expected to occur in future periods impacts the amount of premium to be amortized in the current period. If prepayments in a future period are higher or lower than expected, then Sterling will need to amortize a larger or smaller amount of the premium to interest income in that future period.

Management determines the appropriate classification of investment securities at the time of purchase. Held-to-maturity securities are those securities that Sterling has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity and are recorded at amortized cost. Available-for-sale securities are those securities that would be available to be sold in the future in response to Sterling’s liquidity needs, changes in market interest rates, and asset-liability management strategies, among others. Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value, with unrealized holding gains and losses reported in shareholders’ equity as a separate component of other comprehensive income, net of applicable deferred income taxes.

Management evaluates investment securities for other-than-temporary declines in fair value on a quarterly basis. If the fair value of investment securities falls below their amortized cost and the decline is deemed to be other-than-temporary, the securities will be written down to current market value, resulting in a loss recorded in the income statement. There were no investment securities that management identified to be other-than-temporarily impaired during the three months ended June 30, 2005, because the decline in fair value was attributable to changes in interest rates and not credit quality, and because Sterling has the ability and intent to hold these investments until a recovery in market price occurs, or until maturity. Realized losses could occur in future periods due to a change in management’s intent to hold the investments to maturity, a change in management’s assessment of credit risk, or a change in regulatory or accounting requirements.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Goodwill arising from business combinations represents the value attributable to unidentifiable intangible elements in the business acquired. Sterling’s goodwill relates to value inherent in the banking business and the value is dependent upon Sterling’s ability to provide quality, cost effective services in a competitive market place. As such, goodwill value is supported ultimately by revenue that is generated by the volume of business transacted. A decline in earnings as a result of a lack of growth or the inability to deliver cost effective services over sustained periods can lead to impairment of goodwill that could adversely impact earnings in future periods.

Sterling’s management performed the annual test of its goodwill and other intangible assets as of June 30, 2005, and concluded that the recorded values were not impaired. There are many assumptions and estimates underlying the determination of impairment. Another estimate using different but still reasonable assumptions could produce a significantly different result. Additionally, future events could cause management to conclude that Sterling’s goodwill is impaired, which would result in Sterling recording an impairment loss. Any resulting impairment loss could have a material adverse impact on Sterling’s financial condition and results of operations. Other intangible assets consisting of core-deposit intangibles with definite lives are amortized over the estimated life of the acquired depositor relationships (generally eight to ten years).

Real Estate Owned and Other Collateralized Assets. Property and other assets acquired through foreclosure of defaulted mortgage or other collateralized loans are carried at the lower of cost or fair value, less estimated costs to sell. Development and improvement costs relating to such property are capitalized to the extent they are deemed to be recoverable.

An allowance for losses on real estate and other assets owned is designed to include amounts for estimated losses as a result of impairment in value of the property after repossession. Sterling reviews its real estate owned and other collateralized assets for impairment in value whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the property or other assets may not be recoverable. In performing the review, if expected future undiscounted cash flow from the use of the property or other assets, or the fair value, less selling costs, from the disposition of the property or other assets is less than its carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized.

Income Taxes. Sterling estimates income taxes payable based on the amount it expects to owe various taxing authorities. Accrued income taxes represent the net estimated amount due to, or to be received from, taxing authorities. In estimating accrued income taxes, Sterling assesses the relative merits and risks of the appropriate tax treatment of transactions, taking into account the applicable statutory, judicial and regulatory guidance in the context of Sterling’s tax position. Sterling also considers recent audits and examinations, as well as its historical experience in making such estimates. Although Sterling uses available information to record income taxes, underlying estimates and assumptions can change over time as a result of unanticipated events or circumstances.

Sterling uses an estimate of future earnings to support its position that the benefit of its net deferred taxes will be realized. If future pre-tax income should prove nonexistent or less than the amount of temporary differences giving rise to the net deferred tax assets within the tax years to which they may be applied, the assets will not be realized and Sterling’s net income will be reduced.

Results of Operations

Overview. Sterling recorded net income of $16.0 million, or $0.69 per diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2005, compared with net income of $13.5 million, or $0.58 per diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2004. Net income for the six months ended June 30, 2005 was $31.9 million, or $1.37 per diluted share compared with net income of $25.5 million, or $1.10 per diluted share for the six months ended June 30, 2004. The increases in net income for both periods reflect an increase in NII and non-interest income.

The annualized return on average assets (“ROA”) was 0.92% and 0.86% for the three months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively, and 0.92% and 0.84% for the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The annualized return on average equity (“ROE”) was 13.4% and 12.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2005 and

2004, respectively, and 13.5% and 12.2% for the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively. The increase in ROA and ROE over the 2004 periods was primarily due to increases in NII and MBO income.

Net Interest Income. The most significant component of earnings for a financial institution typically is NII, which is the difference between interest income, primarily from loan, MBS and investment securities portfolios, and interest expense, primarily on deposits and borrowings. During the three months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, NII was $53.8 million and $48.7 million, respectively, an increase of 10%. During the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, NII was $106.6 million and $94.4 million, respectively, an increase of 13%. The increase in NII during the 2005 periods compared to the 2004 periods was primarily due to the increases in average loan and MBS volumes.

Changes in Sterling’s NII are a function of changes in both rates and volumes of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Volume refers to the dollar level of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest spread refers to the difference between the yield on interest-earning assets and the rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest margin refers to NII divided by total average interest-earning assets and is influenced by the level and relative mix of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.

The following table presents the composition of the change in NII for the periods presented. For each category of interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities, the following table provides information on changes attributable to:

• changes in volume – changes in volume multiplied by comparative period rate;

• changes in rate – changes in rate multiplied by comparative period volume; and

• changes in rate/volume – changes in rate multiplied by changes in volume.

	Three months ended June 30,											Six months ended June 30,
	2005 vs. 2004											2005 vs. 2004
	Increase (Decrease) Due to:											Increase (Decrease) Due to:
							Rate/									Rate/
	Volume			Rate			Volume		Total			Volume		Rate		Volume			Total
	(Dollars in thousands)
Rate/volume analysis:

Interest income:
Loans	$	11,565		$	4,288		$	1,041	$	16,894		$	24,375	$	6,955	$	1,273		$	32,603
MBS	929			783			91		1,803			4,700		899		(2		)	5,597
Investments and cash equivalents	(93		)	(846		)	58		(881		)