Form 8-K - Current report

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported): May 14, 2024

BANC OF CALIFORNIA, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)


Maryland	001-35522	04-3639825
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation)	(Commission File Number)	(IRS Employer Identification No.)


11611 San Vicente Boulevard, Suite 500
Los Angeles, California						90049
(Address of principal executive offices)						(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (855) 361-2262

N/A

(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions (see General Instruction A.2.):


☐			Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)


☐			Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)


☐			Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))


☐			Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).

Emerging growth company ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class

Trading Symbol(s)

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share

BANC

New York Stock Exchange

Depositary Shares, each representing a 1/40th interest in a share of 7.75% fixed rate reset non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock, Series F

BANC/PF

New York Stock Exchange

Item 4.01 Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant.

(a) Dismissal of Previous Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

As previously disclosed in Banc of California, Inc.’s (the “Company”) 2024 proxy statement, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Audit Committee”) of the Company conducted a competitive process beginning in early 2024 to determine the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024. The Audit Committee invited certain independent registered public accounting firms to participate in this process and evaluated the proposals submitted by the responding firms. As a result of this process and following careful deliberation, on May 14, 2024, the Audit Committee approved the dismissal of KPMG LLP (“KPMG”) as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm effective immediately.

The audit reports of KPMG on the consolidated financial statements of the Company as of and for each of the two most recent fiscal years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion and were not qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope, or accounting principles.

During the Company’s two most recent fiscal years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 and during the subsequent interim period from January 1, 2024 through May 14, 2024, there were (i) no disagreements with KPMG on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or auditing scope or procedures that, if not resolved to KPMG’s satisfaction, would have caused KPMG to make reference to the subject matter of the disagreement in connection with their reports, and (ii) no “reportable events” as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).

Before filing this Current Report on Form 8-K with the SEC, the Company provided KPMG with a copy of the disclosures contained in this Item 4.01(a). The Company has requested that KPMG issue a letter, addressed to the SEC, stating whether or not KPMG LLP agrees with the statements contained in this Item 4.01(a). A copy of KPMG LLP’s letter dated May 20, 2024, addressed to the SEC, is filed as Exhibit 16.1 to this Current Report on Form 8-K.

(b) Appointment of New Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

On May 14, 2024, the Audit Committee approved the engagement of Ernst & Young LLP (“EY”) as the Company’s

new independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2024, effective with KPMG’s dismissal.

Prior to the November 30, 2023 closing of the Company’s merger with PacWest Bancorp (the “PacWest Transaction”), EY was engaged as the independent registered public accounting firm of the Company, to audit the Company’s financial statements for each of the fiscal years ended December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 and review the subsequent interim period through September 30, 2023 (the “Prior Representation”). On November 30, 2023, EY ceased to be the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm as a result of the PacWest Transaction.

Except for matters concerning EY’s Prior Representation, during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, and the subsequent interim period through May 14, 2024, neither the Company nor anyone acting on its behalf consulted with EY regarding any of the matters described in Items 304(a)(2)(i) and (ii) of Regulation S-K.

Item 5.02. Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.

On May 17, 2024 (the “Effective Date”), the Company and its wholly owned subsidiary, Banc of California (the “Bank” and together, the “Employer”) entered into an amended and restated employment agreement with Jared M. Wolff, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank (the “Employment Agreement”), amending certain provisions of Mr. Wolff’s existing employment agreement (the “Prior Employment Agreement”) as further described herein.

As with the Prior Employment Agreement, the Employment Agreement provides for the employment of Mr. Wolff as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank. As amended, the term of the renewed Employment Agreement commences on May 17, 2024 and has a three year term unless terminated sooner or extended as provided in the Employment Agreement. The Employment Agreement was revised to reflect Mr, Wolff’s current base salary and set his annual bonus target at 150% of his base salary. Mr. Wolff will receive a cash retention bonus in the amount of $2,200,000 within fifteen days of the Effective Date, which is subject to pro-rated repayment on a net after tax basis calculated based on the days that Mr. Wolff is employed during the retention period if he is terminated with “cause” or resigns without “good reason” (each as defined in the Employment Agreement) prior to April 30, 2027. Mr. Wolff’s long-term equity incentive award under the Company’s equity incentive plan will be based on an annual target grant amount equal to 250% of the rate of annual base salary then in effect.

In the event that the Employer terminates Mr. Wolff’s employment without cause or gives notice of non-renewal upon expiration of the employment term or Mr. Wolff resigns for good reason (collectively, a “Qualified Termination”) outside of the period described in the immediately following paragraph, subject to Mr. Wolff’s execution of a release of claims, Mr. Wolff is entitled to receive:

1.severance pay equal to two times the sum of his (A) base salary and (B) target bonus, payable in a lump sum;

2.a pro-rated target bonus calculated based on the days that Mr. Wolff is employed in the year of termination, payable in a lump sum;

3.the employer portion of the COBRA premiums for 36 months;

4.full vesting of all non-performance-based equity awards; and

5.continued eligibility for vesting of performance-based equity awards on a pro-rated basis calculated based on the days that Mr. Wolff is employed in the applicable performance period.

In the event of a Qualified Termination that occurs within six months prior to or two years following a change of control, subject to Mr. Wolff’s execution of a release of claims, Mr. Wolff is entitled to receive:

1.severance pay equal to three times the sum of (A) base salary and (B) target bonus, payable in a lump sum;

2.a pro-rated target bonus calculated based on the days that Mr. Wolff is employed in the year of termination, payable in a lump sum;

3.the employer portion of the COBRA premiums for 36 months; and

4.full vesting of all equity awards, with any performance-based equity awards vesting at the higher of target level or, solely if the applicable performance goals are then determinable and exceed the target level of performance, actual performance.

In the event that Mr. Wolff’s employment is terminated due to death or disability, subject to Mr. Wolff’s (or Mr. Wolff’s beneficiary or estate in case of termination due to death) execution of a release of claims, Mr. Wolff (or Mr. Wolff’s beneficiary or estate) is entitled to receive:

1.a full target bonus for the year of termination, payable in a lump sum; and

2.full vesting of all equity awards, with any performance-based equity awards vesting at the higher of target level or, solely if the applicable performance goals are then determinable and exceed the target level of performance, actual performance.

Except as set forth above, the terms and conditions of the Employment Agreement are substantially the same as the terms and conditions of the Prior Employment Agreement.

The foregoing description of the Employment Agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Employment Agreement, which is filed as Exhibit 10.1 hereto and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d) Exhibits.

10.1 Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated as of May 17, 2024, by and among Jared M. Wolff, Banc of California, Inc. and Banc of California

16.1 Letter from KPMG LLP to the Securities and Exchange Commission dated May 20 , 2024

104 Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.


BANC OF CALIFORNIA, INC.
/s/ Ido Dotan
Ido Dotan
General Counsel, Chief Administrative Officer, and Corporate Secretary

Date: May 20, 2024

Exhibit 10.1

CONFIDENTIAL

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) dated as of May 17, 2024, is by and among BANC OF CALIFORNIA, INC., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), the BANC OF CALIFORNIA, a California state chartered bank (the “Bank” and together with the Company, “Employer”) and JARED WOLFF (“Executive”).

WHEREAS, Employer and Executive entered into an Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated February 7, 2022 (the “Prior Agreement”);

WHEREAS, Employer desires to continue to employ Executive, and Executive desires to continue to be employed by Employer upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Agreement, effective as of the Effective Date (as defined below); and

WHEREAS, the Employer and Executive are entering into this Agreement to amend and modify certain provisions of the Prior Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, the parties agree as follows:

1.Employment. Employer agrees to employ Executive, and Executive accepts employment with Employer, upon the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement and this Agreement amends and restates the Prior Agreement in its entirety.

2.Term. The term of employment under this Agreement shall begin on May 17, 2024 (the “Effective Date”), and shall expire on April 30, 2027, unless terminated sooner as provided in this Agreement or unless extended as provided in the next sentence (the “Employment Period”). Unless this Agreement is terminated earlier, commencing on May 1, 2027, and on each May 1st on or after May 1, 2027, the “Renewal Date”), the Employment Period shall be extended for one (1) additional year (a “Renewal Term”), unless either party notifies the other party at least ninety (90) days prior to the applicable Renewal Date that the Employment Period shall not be so extended; provided, however, that in no event shall the Employment Period be extended beyond April 30, 2029, except by written agreement of the parties.

3.Duties. During the Employment Period:

(a)Executive shall be employed by Employer as President & Chief Executive Officer of the Company and the Bank, with the authority, duties and responsibilities as are customarily assigned to this position. Executive shall report directly to the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), and in his capacity as President and CEO of the Bank, to the Board of Directors of the Bank. During the Employment Period, Executive shall serve on the Board without additional compensation, subject to election by the shareholders of the Company, and shall also serve on the Board of Directors of the Bank as its Chairman.

(b)Executive shall devote his full business time, energy and skill to the business of Employer (except for vacations and absences made necessary because of illness), and to the promotion of Employer’s best interests. Executive agrees to devote the time necessary to discharge faithfully and efficiently his responsibilities under this Agreement. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, Executive may devote reasonable time to (i) supervision of his personal investments, (ii) to activities involving professional, charitable, educational, religious and similar types of organizations, (iii) to speaking engagements, and (iv) to similar activities, to the extent that those other activities do not interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, or conflict in any way with the business or interests of Employer, and are in compliance with Employer’s policies and procedures in effect from time to time applicable to employees with respect to actual or potential conflicts of interest, including, without limitation, the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and the Company’s policies on Outside Business Activity and Related Party Transactions. Executive shall be permitted to sit on at least one outside public company or for-profit private company outside board, subject to approval by the Joint Compensation, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board (the “Committee”) and compliance with any other applicable Company policies.

(c)Executive’s primary office and place of employment shall be at the Company’s headquarters, which for the initial twelve (12) months of Executive’s Employment Period, unless otherwise agreed by the Board, shall be at the Company’s current headquarters in Los Angeles, California.

(d)Executive represents and warrants that there are no current or prior employment agreements between him and his former employers—including but not limited to any employee code of conduct, noncompetition, nonsolicitation or nondisclosure agreements—that would restrict or otherwise adversely affect his continuing employment with Employer or performing his expected job duties.

4.Compensation. During the Employment Period:

(a)Executive shall be paid a base salary (“Annual Base Salary”) as follows:

(i)effective as of January 1, 2024 through February 28, 2025, at the rate of One Million Fifty Thousand Dollars ($1,050,000) per annum;

(ii)after February 28, 2025, at the rate determined by the Committee; provided, however, that the Committee may not reduce the rate of Annual Base Salary without Executive’s written consent.

The Annual Base Salary shall be payable in accordance with Employer’s normal payroll practices (but not less frequently than monthly), as those practices may be determined from time to time.

(b)Executive shall be eligible to receive an annual bonus payable in cash (“Annual Bonus”) with respect to each fiscal year during the Employment Period, with an annual target bonus opportunity no less than one hundred fifty percent (150%) of Executive’s rate of Annual Base Salary in effect when the Annual Bonus terms for the year are approved (the “Target Bonus”). The actual Annual Bonus earned may be between zero percent (0%) and one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the Target Bonus, depending on the level of achievement of applicable goals. The Annual Bonus may be based on a combination of individual and Company-related performance objectives, each of which shall be determined in good faith

by the Committee after consultation with Executive. Subject to other provisions of this Agreement which would result in acceleration of any payments or benefits, Executive must remain employed through the last day of the fiscal year to which the Annual Bonus relates to earn and be entitled to payment of any Annual Bonus for that year. Payment of the Annual Bonus will be made at the same time as bonuses are paid to Employer’s other executive officers following the Committee’s determination and certification of the performance results following the end of the fiscal year performance measurement period, but not later than March 15th of the year following the end of the fiscal year performance measurement period.

(c)Executive shall receive a cash retention bonus of Two Million Two Hundred Thousand Dollars ($2,200,000), to be paid within fifteen (15) days following the Effective Date (the “Retention Bonus”). In the event Executive’s employment is terminated by Employer with Cause (as defined below) or by Executive without Good Reason (as defined below), in each case prior to April 30, 2027, Executive shall pay to Employer a pro-rata portion of the net after-tax amount of the Retention Bonus within fifteen (15) days following the Date of Termination (as defined below), with such pro-rated portion calculated by multiplying the net after-tax amount of the Retention Bonus by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days from the Date of Termination through April 30, 2027, and the denominator of which is the number of days from the Effective Date through April 30, 2027. For the avoidance of doubt, in the event Executive’s employment is terminated by Employer without Cause, by Executive with Good Reason or upon a Change of Control (as defined in Exhibit A), or by reason of death or Disability (as defined below), in each case prior to April 30, 2027, Executive shall not pay to Employer any portion of the Retention Bonus.

(d)All amounts provided by Employer to Executive or any affiliate thereof, whether under this Agreement, the Prior Agreement or otherwise, will be subject to such deductions and clawback (recovery) (i) as may be required to be made pursuant to law, government regulation, order or stock exchange listing requirement, (ii) pursuant to any policy that Employer has adopted or may adopt or (iii) by agreement with, or consent of, Executive.

(e)Executive shall be eligible to receive long-term equity incentive awards commensurate with Executive’s position on the schedule applicable to long-term awards made generally to Employer’s executive officers. Such awards to Executive shall be granted annually or on a periodic basis by the Committee, with a target long-term equity incentive award that shall be based on an annual target grant amount that is two hundred fifty percent (250%) of Annual Base Salary at the current rate then in effect. The Board may exercise discretion to increase or decrease the annual long-term equity target grant amount for any year based on its evaluation of Executive’s performance or other factors, but not less than a target grant amount of 150% of Annual Base Salary.

5.Vacation and Other Paid Time Off. Executive shall be entitled to paid time off in accordance with Employer’s paid time off policy, on the same terms as apply to Employer’s other executive officers, which paid time off shall not be less than four (4) weeks per calendar year, prorated for partial calendar years.

6.Benefits.

(a)During the Employment Period, Executive and/or Executive’s family, as the case may be, shall be eligible for participation in all benefits under all plans, practices, policies and programs provided by Employer on a basis that is no less favorable than those generally

applicable or made available to executive officers of Employer. Executive shall be eligible for participation in fringe benefits and perquisite plans, practices, policies and programs (including, without limitation, expense reimbursement plans, practices, policies and programs, as well as supplemental executive disability insurance benefits and vehicle policies or vehicle allowances) on a basis that is no less favorable than those generally applicable or made available to executive officers of Employer.

(b)Employer shall either provide an automobile or reimburse Executive for Executive’s lease of an automobile for Executive’s use, including business use, on mutually acceptable terms.

(c)Employer shall promptly reimburse (in accordance with reimbursement policies and procedures of Employer then in effect for its executive officers) Executive for Executive’s personal annual membership fees in social and professional organizations relevant to the Bank and approved by the Committee; provided, however, that such reimbursement shall not exceed Forty-Five Thousand Dollars ($45,000) per annum (prorated for any partial calendar year during the Employment Period), or as otherwise approved by the Committee Chair.

(d)Employer shall promptly reimburse (in accordance with reimbursement policies and procedures of Employer then in effect for its executive officers) Executive for reasonable attorney fees incurred by Executive in connection with the review and negotiation of this Agreement, up to Forty Thousand Dollars ($40,0000).

7.Termination.

(a)Death or Disability. Executive’s employment shall terminate automatically upon Executive’s death during the Employment Period. If Employer determines in good faith that the Disability of Executive has occurred during the Employment Period (pursuant to the definition of Disability set forth below), it may provide Executive with written notice in accordance with Section 24 of its intention to terminate Executive’s employment. In such event, to the extent permitted by applicable law, Executive’s employment with Employer shall terminate effective on the thirtieth day after receipt of such notice by Executive (the “Disability Effective Date”); provided that, within thirty days after such receipt, Executive shall not have returned to full-time performance of Executive’s duties. For purposes of this Agreement, “Disability” shall mean the absence of Executive from Executive’s duties with Employer on a full-time basis for ninety (90) consecutive days, or a total of one hundred and eighty (180) days in any twelve-month period, as a result of incapacity due to mental or physical illness which is determined to be total and permanent by a physician selected by Employer or its insurers and acceptable to Executive or Executive’s legal representative.

(b)With or Without Cause. Employer may terminate Executive’s employment during the Employment Period with or without Cause at any time upon notice to Executive. For purposes of this Agreement, “Cause” means Executive’s (i) personal dishonesty, gross negligence, willful misconduct, fraud or breach of fiduciary duty, in each case in connection with the performance of services on behalf of Employer or otherwise in connection with Executive’s position with Employer; (ii) willful failure to perform Executive’s duties for or on behalf of Employer or its affiliates, or to follow, or cooperate in carrying out, any lawful and reasonable material written policy adopted by Employer (including any written code of conduct or standards of ethics applicable to employees of Employer) or any reasonable directive from the Board or the Board of Directors of the Bank; (iii) continued and willful neglect of Executive’s duties for or on behalf of Employer

or its affiliates; (iv) the taking of, or omission to take, any action that is materially disruptive of the business or affairs of Employer, other than actions taken or omitted in good faith consistent with the best interests of Employer and its affiliates; (v) material breach of any provision of this Agreement; (vi) intentional violation of any material law, rule, regulation or judicial or administrative order to which Employer or any affiliate is subject or of any formal administrative action entered into by Employer or any affiliate, or imposed upon any of them; (vii) conduct that results in Executive’s suspension or temporary or permanent prohibition or removal from participation in the conduct of the affairs of Employer or any affiliate, or the assessment of any material civil money penalty against Executive, in any such case pursuant to the rules and regulations of any applicable regulatory agency having jurisdiction over Employer or its affiliates, or the issuance of any permanent injunction or similar remedy by a court having jurisdiction over Employer preventing Executive from executing or performing his material duties under this Agreement; or (viii) conviction of, or plea of nolo contendere to, a felony or any other crime involving moral turpitude, whether or not in connection with the business and affairs of Employer or its affiliates; provided, however, that Executive shall have thirty (30) days to cure any of the events or occurrences described in the immediately preceding clauses, to the extent such events or occurrences are curable. For purposes of this Section 7(b), no act or failure to act, on the part of Executive, shall be considered “willful” unless it is done, or omitted to be done, by Executive in bad faith or without reasonable belief that Executive’s action or omission was in the best interests of Employer.

(c)With Good Reason. Executive’s employment may be terminated by Executive with Good Reason. For purposes of this Agreement, “Good Reason” shall mean, in the absence of a written consent of Executive, any of the following:

(i)a material diminution in Executive’s title, authority, reporting relationships, duties or responsibilities (other than removal or failure to re-elect Executive as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bank);

(ii)a material breach of this Agreement by Employer (other than a breach of Section 4 resulting from a reduction in compensation or benefits that is required by a regulatory authority or applicable law);

(iii)any requirement by Employer that Executive’s services be rendered primarily at a location other than in the Orange County or Los Angeles metropolitan areas; or

(iv)non-renewal of this Agreement by the Employer upon expiration of the employment period.

To invoke a termination with Good Reason, Executive shall provide written notice to Employer of the existence of one or more of the conditions described in clauses (i) through (iv) within ninety (90) days following the initial existence of such condition or conditions, and Employer shall have thirty (30) days following receipt of such written notice (the “Cure Period”) during which it may remedy the condition if such condition is reasonably subject to cure. In the event that Employer fails to remedy the condition constituting Good Reason during the applicable Cure Period, Executive’s “separation from service” (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”)) must occur, if at all, within sixty (60) days following such Cure Period in order for such termination as a result of such condition to constitute a termination with Good Reason.

(d)Without Good Reason. Executive’s employment may be terminated by Executive without Good Reason at any time upon sixty (60) days’ prior written notice to Employer.

(i)The period commencing on the date on which Employer receives notice of Executive’s termination of his employment without Good Reason (the “Notice Date”) and ending on the earlier of (i) sixty (60) days following the Notice Date and (ii) such earlier date as designated by Employer shall be referred to as the “Notice Period.”

(ii)During the Notice Period, Employer:

(1)shall continue to pay Executive the Annual Base Salary then in effect, in accordance with Employer’s regular payroll practices and allow Executive to participate in Employer’s benefit plans to the extent permitted by such plans and applicable law;

(2)reserves the right to (i) change or remove any of Executive’s duties, (ii) require Executive to remain away from Employer’s premises, and/or (iii) take such other action as determined by Employer to aid and assist in the transition process associated with Executive’s departure; and

(3)may waive or terminate the Notice Period at any time and for any reason or for no reason, in which case the Date of Termination shall be the date on which Employer notifies Executive of such waiver or termination; provided, however, that notwithstanding any such waiver, Executive shall be entitled to his regular compensation for such Notice Period.

(e)Upon Expiration of Employment Period. Executive’s employment shall terminate automatically upon expiration of the Employment Period if either party gives notice of non-renewal as set forth in Section 2. For purposes of clarity, if the Employer gives notice of non-renewal upon expiration of the Employment Period, it will constitute a termination by the Employer Without Cause that entitles Executive to Severance Benefits (as defined below) under Section 8(c).

(f)Notice of Termination. Any termination by Employer or Executive shall be communicated by Notice of Termination to the other party to this Agreement given in accordance with Section 24. For purposes of this Agreement, a “Notice of Termination” means a written notice that (i) indicates the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, (ii) to the extent applicable, sets forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated, and (iii) if the Date of Termination is other than the date of receipt of such notice, specifies the Date of Termination (which date shall comply with the notice provisions set forth in the definitions of “Cause” and “Good Reason,” as applicable). The failure by Executive or Employer to set forth in the Notice of Termination any fact or circumstance which contributes to a showing of Good Reason or Cause, as applicable, shall not waive any right of Executive or Employer, respectively, hereunder or preclude Executive or Employer, respectively, from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s or Employer’s rights hereunder.

(g)Date of Termination. For purposes of this Agreement, “Date of Termination” means (i) if Executive’s employment is terminated by Employer with Cause, or by Executive with Good Reason, the Date of Termination shall be as designated by Employer or Executive,

as applicable (provided that the Date of Termination shall not be before the expiration of any applicable cure period and, if Executive’s employment is terminated by Executive with Good Reason, shall be within sixty (60) days after such expiration); (ii) if Executive’s employment is terminated by Employer without Cause, the Date of Termination shall be the date on which Employer notifies Executive of such termination; (iii) if Executive’s employment is terminated by reason of death or Disability, the Date of Termination shall be the date of death of Executive or the Disability Effective Date, as the case may be, and (iv) if Executive’s employment is terminated by Executive without Good Reason, the Date of Termination shall be the earlier of sixty (60) days following the Notice Date and such earlier date as designated by Employer. Upon Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall, without further action of Employer or Executive, automatically cease to be an employee, officer, director, and service provider of the Company, the Bank, the respective affiliates of the Company and the Bank, the Board, and the Board of Directors of the Bank.

8.Obligations of Employer and Executive upon Termination of Employment.

(a)In the event of the termination of Executive’s employment for any reason, Executive shall be entitled to any Accrued Obligations. “Accrued Obligations” means (i) any base salary that Executive has earned but not been paid during or prior to the Date of Termination, which, if Executive’s employment is terminated by Executive for any reason, shall be paid on the later of the Date of Termination or seventy-two (72) hours after the Notice of Termination is given, and if Executive’s employment is terminated by Employer, shall be paid on the Date of Termination, (ii) Executive’s Annual Bonus earned for the fiscal year immediately preceding the fiscal year in which the Date of Termination occurs to the extent such bonus has not been paid as of the Date of Termination (which shall be paid in the ordinary course when annual bonuses are paid to Employer’s other executive officers); (iii) any business expenses that are reimbursable under Section 6 that were incurred by Executive as of the Date of Termination but have not been reimbursed on the Date of Termination, subject to the submission of any required substantiation and documentation and paid in the ordinary course consistent with past practice, and (iv) any payments or benefits to which Executive or his beneficiary or estate is entitled under the terms of any applicable Employer benefit plan (which shall be paid or provided pursuant to the terms of the applicable plan, agreement or policy).

(b)In the event that, during the term of this Agreement, Executive’s employment is terminated by reason of death or Disability, subject to Section 8(d), Executive (or Executive’s beneficiary or estate in the event Executive’s employment is terminated by reason of death) shall be entitled to the following benefits (the “Death and Disability Benefits”):

(i)annual bonus in an amount equal to Executive’s Target Bonus in effect on the Date of Termination, payable in a lump sum on the first payroll date coincident with or next following the sixtieth (60th) calendar day following Executive’s Date of Termination; and

(ii)all of Executive’s outstanding equity-based awards shall vest and become free of restrictions immediately (with any performance-based equity awards vesting at “target” performance levels unless the applicable performance goals are determinable as of the Date of Termination and actual performance exceeds “target” performance levels, in which case such performance-based awards will vest based on the actual level of achievement determined as of the Date of Termination).

(c)In the event that, during the term of this Agreement, Employer terminates Executive’s employment without Cause, the Employer gives notice of non-renewal upon expiration of the Employment Period or Executive resigns with Good Reason, subject to Section 8(d), Executive shall be entitled to the following severance benefits (the “Severance Benefits”):

(i)severance pay in an amount equal to two (2) times the sum of (A) Executive’s Annual Base Salary in effect on the Date of Termination, and (B) Executive’s Target Bonus in effect on the Date of Termination (the “Severance Amount”), payable in a lump sum on the first payroll date coincident with or next following the sixtieth (60th) calendar day following Executive’s Date of Termination;

(ii)annual bonus in an amount equal to Executive’s Target Bonus in effect on the Date of Termination multiplied by a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days in the fiscal year in which the Date of Termination occurs up to and including the Date of Termination, and the denominator of which is the total number of days in the fiscal year in which the Date of Termination occurs, payable in a lump sum on the first payroll date coincident with or next following the sixtieth (60th) calendar day following Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii)for the thirty-six (36) month period following the Date of Termination, provided Executive has elected group health plan continuation coverage (“COBRA”) under an Employer-provided group health plan, Employer shall pay to Executive in equal monthly installments, an amount equal to the monthly COBRA premium, less an amount equal to the portion of the monthly health-care premium Executive was paying prior to the Date of Termination;

(iv)Executive’s outstanding equity-based awards that are not performance-based shall vest and become free of restrictions immediately;

(v)a pro-rated portion of Executive’s outstanding equity-based awards that are performance-based shall continue to vest based on actual performance in accordance with the applicable criteria, with the pro-rated portion of each award calculated using a fraction, the numerator of which is the number of days in the applicable award’s performance period up to and including the Date of Termination, and the denominator of which is the total number of days in the applicable award’s performance period; and

(vi)notwithstanding the foregoing, if Employer terminates Executive’s employment without Cause, the Employer gives notice of non-renewal upon expiration of the Employment Period or Executive resigns with Good Reason, and the Date of Termination occurs within six months prior to or two years immediately following a Change of Control, subject to Section 8(d), (A) the Severance Amount will be equal to three times the sum of Executive’s Annual Base Salary and Executive’s Target Bonus in effect on the Date of Termination (payable as provided in subparagraph (b)(i) above); and (B) all of Executive’s outstanding equity-based awards shall vest and become free of restrictions immediately (with any performance-based equity awards vesting at “target” performance levels unless the applicable performance goals are determinable as of the Date of Termination and actual performance exceeds “target” performance levels, in which case such performance-based awards will vest based on the actual level of achievement determined as of the Date of Termination).

(d)Any Death and Disability Benefits pursuant to Section 8(b) or Severance Benefits pursuant to Section 8(c) is subject to and conditioned upon Executive (or Executive’s beneficiary or estate in the event Executive’s employment is terminated by reason of death) signing and delivering to Employer a general release and waiver (in the form set forth as Exhibit B to this Agreement, as amended to conform to any changes in applicable law after the Effective Date) within twenty one (21) days following the Date of Termination (or 45 days following the Date of Termination if Executive’s termination is part of a group termination as set forth in 29 U.S.C. §626(f)(1)(F)(ii)), and not revoking the general release within any applicable revocation period.

(e)If any payment or benefit received or to be received by Executive pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payments”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code, and (ii) but for this subsection (d), be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code, any successor provisions, or any comparable federal, state, local or foreign excise tax (“Excise Tax”), then such Payments shall be either (A) provided in full pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or any other applicable agreement, or (B) provided as to such lesser extent which would result in no portion of such Payments being subject to the Excise Tax, whichever of the foregoing amounts, taking into account the applicable federal, state, local and foreign income, employment and other taxes and the Excise Tax, results in the receipt by Executive, on an after-tax basis, of the greatest amount of payments and benefits, notwithstanding that all or some portion of such Payments may be subject to the Excise Tax. Employer and Executive shall work together in good faith to maximize the portion of the Payments payable to Executive. If a reduction is required pursuant to this section, the reduction shall be made as follows: (x) if none of the parachute payments constitute non-qualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code), then the reduction shall occur in the manner Executive elects in writing, and (y) if any parachute payments constitute non-qualified deferred compensation or if Executive fails to elect an order, then the parachute payments to be reduced will be determined by the Accounting Firm (as defined below) in a manner which has the least economic cost to Executive and, to the extent the economic cost is equivalent, will be reduced in the inverse order of when payment would have been made to Executive, until the reduction is achieved. Any determination required under this section shall be made by an independent accounting firm designated by the Company (the “Accounting Firm”), whose determination shall be conclusive and binding upon Executive and Employer for all purposes. For purposes of making the calculations required under this section, the Accounting Firm may make reasonable assumptions and approximations concerning applicable taxes and may rely on reasonable, good faith interpretations concerning the application of Sections 280G and 4999 of the Code; provided that the Accounting Firm shall assume that Executive pays all taxes at the highest marginal rate. Employer and Executive shall furnish to the Accounting Firm such information and documents as the Accounting Firm may reasonably request in order to make a determination under this section. Employer will bear all costs that the Accounting Firm may reasonably incur in connection with any calculations contemplated by this section.

(f)Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement to the contrary, any payments made to Executive pursuant to this Agreement, or otherwise, are subject to and conditioned upon their compliance with 12 U.S.C. § 1828(k) and any regulations promulgated thereunder, including 12 C.F.R. Part 359.

(g)As of the Date of Termination, Executive shall resign from all positions held with Employer, including as a member of the Board and the Board of Directors of the Bank, and as a director, officer, trustee, general partner or other capacity in which he is serving with any entity at the request of Employer or by reason of his service for Employer.

(h)From and after the Date of Termination, Executive agrees to cooperate fully with Employer’s reasonable requests in connection with any existing or future investigations, claims, litigation, audits or similar actions involving Employer or its affiliates, whether administrative, civil or criminal in nature, in which and to the extent Employer reasonably deems Executive’s cooperation necessary. Employer shall pay all reasonable, documented travel and other expenses incurred by Executive in connection with providing his cooperation if the expenses and costs are approved in advance in writing by Employer. Executive also agrees to respond to requests from Employer and its counsel for information needed to prepare such operational, financial and other reports, filings and documents that relate to the time period during which Executive provided services to Employer or to the termination of his services. To the extent that Executive’s cooperation under this Section 8(h) requires more than a de minimis amount of time, Employer and Executive shall negotiate mutually agreeable remuneration for such cooperation. For the avoidance of doubt, the term “cooperation” does not mean that Executive must provide information that is favorable to Employer; it means only that Executive will provide information within Executive’s knowledge and possession upon Employer’s request.

9.Nonsolicitation. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, during the term of this Agreement, and for a period of twenty-four (24) months following the Date of Termination, Executive shall not, and shall not assist any other person to (i) solicit for hiring any employee of Employer or any of its affiliates (or any individual who was such an employee at any time within the twelve (12) month period preceding such solicitation), or seek to persuade any employee of Employer or any of its affiliates (or any individual who was such an employee at any time within the twelve (12) month period preceding such action) to discontinue employment, or (ii) solicit or encourage any independent contractor providing services to Employer or any of its affiliates to terminate or diminish its relationship with them.

10.Nondisclosure of Confidential Information.

(a)Executive acknowledges that Employer and its affiliates may disclose confidential information to Executive during the Employment Period to enable him to perform his duties hereunder. Executive agrees that, except as required by law, regulatory directive or judicial order or as permitted in Section 10(c) below, he will not, without the prior written consent of Employer, during the Employment Period or at any time thereafter, disclose or permit to be disclosed to any third party by any method whatsoever any of the confidential information of Employer or any of its affiliates. For purposes of this Agreement, “confidential information” shall include, but not be limited to, any and all records, notes, memoranda, data, ideas, processes, methods, techniques, systems, formulas, patents, models, devices, programs, computer software, writings, research, personnel information, customer information, or financial information of Employer or any of its affiliates, plans, or any other information of whatever nature in the possession or control of Employer which has not been published or disclosed to the general public (other than by acts of Executive or his agents in violation of this Agreement), or which gives to Employer or any of its affiliates an opportunity to obtain an advantage over competitors who do not know of or use it. The foregoing covenants will not prohibit Executive from disclosing confidential

or other information to other employees of Employer or to third parties to the extent that such disclosure is necessary to the performance of his duties under this Agreement.

(b)Executive further agrees that if his employment hereunder is terminated for any reason, he will not take originals or copies of any and all records, papers, programs, computer software and documents and all matter of whatever nature containing secret or confidential information of Employer or any of its affiliates.

(c)Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, nothing in this Agreement, including this Section 10, is intended to prohibit Executive, and Executive is not prohibited, from providing information to, responding to any inquiries from, reporting possible violations of law or regulation to, filing charges with, making disclosures protected under the whistleblower provisions of U.S. federal or California state law or regulation, or participating in investigations of U.S. federal law or regulation by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, National Labor Relations Board, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Congress, any U.S. agency Inspector General or any self-regulatory agencies or federal, state or local governmental agencies (collectively, “Government Agencies,” and each a “Government Agency”). Accordingly, Executive does not need the prior authorization of Employer to make any such reports or disclosures or otherwise communicate with Government Agencies and is not required to notify Employer that he has engaged in any such communications or made any such reports or disclosures. Furthermore, nothing in this Agreement, including this Section 10, is intended to prevent Executive from discussing or disclosing information about unlawful acts in the workplace, such as harassment or discrimination, or any other acts that Executive has reason to believe are unlawful. In addition, Executive is hereby notified that 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b) states as follows:

“(1) An individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any Federal or State trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that—(A) is made—(i) in confidence to a Federal, State, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (B) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.

(2) An individual who files a lawsuit for retaliation by an employer for reporting a suspected violation of law may disclose the trade secret to the attorney of the individual and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding, if the individual—(A) files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and (B) does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order.”

Accordingly, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, Executive understands that he has the right to disclose in confidence trade secrets to federal, state, and local government officials, or to an attorney, for the sole purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law. Executive understands that he also has the right to disclose trade secrets in a document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, but only if the filing is made under seal and protected from public disclosure. In addition, Executive understands that in the event he files a lawsuit for retaliation for reporting a suspected violation of law, he has the right to disclose trade secrets to his attorney and use trade

secrets in such court proceeding, but only if Executive files any document containing the trade secrets under seal and only discloses such trade secrets pursuant to court order. Executive understands and acknowledges that nothing in this Agreement is intended to conflict with 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b) or create liability for disclosures of trade secrets that are expressly allowed by 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b).

11.Intellectual Property. Executive agrees promptly to reduce to writing and to disclose and assign, and hereby does assign, to Employer, its subsidiaries, successors, assigns and nominees, all inventions, discoveries, improvements, copyrightable material, trademarks, programs, computer software and ideas concerning the same, capable of use in connection with the business of Employer or any of its affiliates, which Executive may make or conceive, either solely or jointly with others, during the period of his employment by Employer, its subsidiaries or successors. Executive agrees, at Employer’s expense, that upon a request by Employer, to execute, acknowledge and deliver to Employer all such papers, including applications for patents, applications for copyright and trademark registrations, and assignments thereof, as may be necessary, and at all times to assist Employer, its parent, subsidiaries, successors, assigns and nominees in every proper way to patent or register said programs, computer software, ideas, inventions, discoveries, improvements, copyrightable material or trademarks in any and all countries and to vest title thereto in Employer, its parent, subsidiaries, successors, assigns or nominees. Upon a request by Employer, Executive will promptly report to Employer all discoveries, inventions or improvements of whatsoever nature conceived or made by him at any time he was employed by Employer, its parent, subsidiaries or successors. All such discoveries, inventions and improvements which are applicable in any way to Employer’s business shall be the sole and exclusive property of Employer.

12.Additional Remedies. Executive recognizes that his services under this Agreement are of a personal, special, unique and extraordinary character and irreparable injury will result to Employer and to its business and properties in the event of any breach by Executive of any of the provisions of Sections 9, 10 or 11, and that Executive’s continued employment is predicated on the commitments undertaken by him pursuant to those sections. In the event of any breach of any of Executive’s commitments pursuant to Sections 9, 10 or 11, Employer shall be entitled, in addition to any other remedies and damages available, to injunctive relief to restrain the violation of such commitments by Executive or by any person or persons acting for or with Executive in any capacity whatsoever.

13.Section 409A.

(a)Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, if at the time of Executive’s termination of employment, Executive is a “specified employee” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code and the regulations and guidance of general applicability issued thereunder (“Section 409A”), any and all amounts payable under this Agreement that constitute “nonqualified deferred compensation” payable due to a “separation from service” (as those terms are used in Section 409A) and would (but for this provision) be payable within six (6) months following the date of termination, shall instead be paid on the next business day following the expiration of such six (6)-month period or, if earlier, upon Executive’s death, in each case, with interest from the date on which payment would otherwise have been made, calculated at the applicable federal rate provided under Section 7872(f)(2)(A) of the Code. If Executive receives compensation under Section 8 that can in whole or in part be treated as paid under a “separation pay plan” described in Treasury Regulations Section 1.409A-1(b)(9)(iii) or as a “short-term deferral” described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(b)(4), then, to the extent permitted under Section 409A, such compensation shall be treated accordingly.

(b)For purposes of Section 8, all references to “termination of employment” and correlative phrases shall be construed to require a “separation from service” (as defined in Treasury Regulations Section 1.409A-1(h) after giving effect to the presumptions contained therein).

(c)Each payment made under this Agreement shall be treated as a separate payment and the right to a series of installment payments under this Agreement shall be treated as a right to a series of separate payments.

(d)Any amount that Executive is entitled to be reimbursed or to have paid on his behalf under this Agreement that would constitute nonqualified deferred compensation subject to Section 409A shall be subject to the following additional rules: (i) no reimbursement of any such expense shall affect Executive’s right to reimbursement of any such expense in any other taxable year; (ii) reimbursement of the expense shall be made, if at all, promptly, but not later than the end of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the expense was incurred; and (iii) the right to reimbursement shall not be subject to liquidation or exchange for any other benefit.

(e)It is intended that the terms of this Agreement comply with Section 409A, or an exemption therefrom, and the terms of this Agreement will be interpreted accordingly. To the extent that any provision in this Agreement is ambiguous as to its compliance with Section 409A or to the extent any provision in this Agreement must be modified to comply with Section 409A (including, without limitation, Treasury Regulation 1.409A-3(c)), Employer and Executive shall work together in good faith to modify such provision in such a manner so that all payments due under this Agreement will comply with Section 409A; provided, however, that Employer and its executives, officers, directors, agents and representatives (including, without limitation, legal counsel) will not have any liability to Executive or any related party with respect to any taxes, penalties, interest or other costs or expenses Executive or any related party may incur with respect to or as a result of Section 409A or for damages for failing to comply with Section 409A.

14.Adjustments to Comply with Final Interagency Guidance on Sound Incentive Compensation Policies. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the compensation or benefits provided under this Agreement are subject to modification, as necessary to comply with requirements imposed by the Board, or the Board of Directors of the Bank, to comply with the “Final Interagency Guidance on Sound Incentive Compensation Policies” issued on an interagency basis by the Federal Reserve System, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Office of Thrift Supervision, effective June 25, 2010, or any amendment, modification or supplement thereto, which shall be deemed to include, without limitation, any rules adopted pursuant to Section 956 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.

15.Non-disparagement. During and for two years after the Employment Period:

(a)Executive agrees to refrain from making any statements about Employer or its officers or directors that would disparage, or reflect unfavorably upon the image or reputation of the Employer or any such officer or director;

(b)Employer shall direct its officers and directors to refrain from making any statements about Executive that would disparage, or reflect unfavorably upon the image or reputation of Executive; provided, however, that the foregoing shall not prohibit Employer from complying with its policies regarding public statements with respect to Employer, or otherwise complying with applicable law; and

(c)nothing in this Agreement or elsewhere shall prohibit (i) honest and good faith reporting by Executive to Employer, (ii) honest and good faith reporting by Executive or Employer to law enforcement authorities, or (iii) compliance with applicable law. In addition, nothing in this Agreement, including this Section 15, is intended to prohibit Executive or Employer, and Executive and Employer are not prohibited, from providing information to, responding to any inquiries from, reporting possible violations of law or regulation to, filing charges with, making disclosures protected under the whistleblower provisions of U.S. federal law or regulation, or participating in investigations of any Government Agency.

16.Provisions Required By Law. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, any provisions that are now or are in the future required by applicable law, rule, regulation or regulatory guidance or policy of general applicability to be included in this Agreement that are not expressly stated herein shall be deemed to be a part of this Agreement as fully as if such provisions were expressly stated herein.

17.No Duplication of Employer Obligations. With respect to any payments or other compensation to be provided hereunder by Employer, the provision of such payments or other compensation by any subsidiary or affiliate of Employer shall be deemed to reduce, to the same extent, the obligation of Employer to provide such payments or other compensation, and vice versa.

18.Assignment; Benefit. No party shall have the right to assign this Agreement or any rights or obligations hereunder without the consent of the other party; provided, however, that Employer may assign its rights and obligations hereunder (i) to any entity controlled by, under the control of, or under common control with, Employer (as long as such entity is no less capable of fulfilling the obligations of Employer hereunder), or (ii) to any successor to Employer upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of Employer, upon any merger or consolidation of Employer or upon any sale of all or substantially all of the assets of Employer (as long as such successor is capable of fulfilling the obligations of Employer hereunder). The Bank and the Company’s other subsidiaries shall be deemed to be beneficiaries of this Agreement

19.Waiver. Failure of any party hereto at any time to require performance by any other party of any provision of this Agreement shall in no way affect the rights of such first party to require performance of that provision, and any waiver by any party hereto of any provision of this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any continuing or succeeding breach of such provision, a waiver of the provision itself, or a waiver of any rights under this Agreement.

20.Severability. If any clause, phrase, provision or portion of this Agreement or the application thereof to any person or circumstance shall be invalid or unenforceable under any applicable law, such event shall not affect or render invalid or unenforceable the remainder of this Agreement and shall not affect the application of any clause, provision or portion hereof to other persons or circumstances.

21.Benefits. The provisions of this Agreement shall inure to the benefit of Employer, its successors and assigns, and shall be binding upon Employer and Executive, its and his heirs, personal representatives and successors, including, without limitation, Executive’s estate and the executors, administrators or trustees of such estate.

22.Governing Law. To the extent not governed by the federal laws of the United States of America, this Agreement shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of California.

23.Arbitration. Executive agrees to sign and be bound by the terms of the Arbitration Agreement, which is attached as Exhibit C.

24.Notices. All notices, requests, demands and other communications in connection with this Agreement shall be made in writing and shall be deemed to have been given when delivered by hand or two (2) business days after mailing at any general or branch United States Post Office, by registered or certified mail postage prepaid, addressed as follows, or to such other address as shall have been designated in writing by the addressee:

If to Employer:

Banc of California, Inc.

3 MacArthur Place

Santa Ana, California 92707

Attention: General Counsel

If to Executive:

At Executive’s last address in the records of Employer.

25.Entire Agreement. This Agreement sets forth the entire understanding of the parties and supersedes all prior agreements, arrangements, and communications, whether oral or written, pertaining to the subject matter hereof, and this Agreement shall not be modified or amended except by written agreement of Employer and Executive.

26.Captions. The headings and captions hereof are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction of this Agreement.

27.Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which shall constitute but one and the same instrument.

28.Construction. Employer and Executive acknowledge that this Agreement was the result of arms-length negotiations between sophisticated parties, each represented by legal counsel. Each and every provision of this Agreement shall be construed as though both parties participated equally in the drafting of same, and any rule of construction that a document shall be construed against the drafting party shall not be applicable to this Agreement.

29.Survival. The obligations contained in this Agreement shall survive the termination of Executive’s employment with Employer or expiration of this Agreement as necessary to carry out the intentions of the parties as described herein.

30.Tax Withholding. Employer shall have the right and power to deduct from all payments or benefits provided pursuant to this Agreement (and/or require Executive to remit to Employer or any subsidiary or affiliate thereof promptly upon notification) the amount required to satisfy any federal, state, local or other tax withholding obligations required by law to be withheld.

(Signature page to follow)

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the date first set forth above.

BANC OF CALIFORNIA, INC.

By: /s/ John M. Eggemeyer

Name: John M. Eggemeyer

Title: Chairman of the Board

Date: 5/20/2024

BANC OF CALIFORNIA

By: /s/ John M. Eggemeyer

Name: John M. Eggemeyer

Title: Director

Date: 5/20/2024

EXECUTIVE

/s/ Jared Wolff

Jared Wolff

Date: 5/19/2024

EXHIBIT A

DEFINITION OF CHANGE OF CONTROL

For the purposes of this Agreement “Change of Control” means:

(a) Any individual, entity or group (within the meaning of Section 13(d)(3) or 14(d)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) (a “Person”) becomes the beneficial owner (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act) of 30% or more of either (i) the then-outstanding shares of common stock of the Company (the “Outstanding Company Common Stock”) or (ii) the combined voting power of the then-outstanding voting securities of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (the “Outstanding Company Voting Securities”); provided, however, that, for purposes hereof, the following acquisitions shall not constitute a Change of Control: (A) any acquisition directly from the Company, (B) any acquisition by the Company, (C) any acquisition by any employee benefit plan (or related trust) sponsored or maintained by the Company or any company affiliated with the Company, or (D) any acquisition pursuant to a transaction that complies with clauses (c)(i), (c)(ii) and (c)(iii) below;

(b) Individuals who, as of the Effective Date, constitute the Board (the “Incumbent Board”) cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the Board; provided, however, that any individual becoming a director subsequent to the Effective Date whose election, or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders, was approved by a vote of at least a majority of the directors then comprising the Incumbent Board shall be considered as though such individual was a member of the Incumbent Board, but excluding, for this purpose, any such individual whose initial assumption of office occurs as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board;

(c) Consummation of a reorganization, merger, statutory share exchange or consolidation or similar transaction involving the Company or any of its subsidiaries, a sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company, or the acquisition of assets or stock of another entity by the Company or any of its subsidiaries (each, a “Business Combination”), in each case, unless, following such Business Combination, (i) all or substantially all of the individuals and entities that were the beneficial owners of the Outstanding Company Common Stock and the Outstanding Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such Business Combination beneficially own, directly or indirectly, greater than 50% of the then-outstanding shares of common stock (or, for a non-corporate entity, equivalent securities) and the combined voting power of the then-outstanding voting securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (or, for a non-corporate entity, equivalent governing body), as the case may be, of the entity resulting from such Business Combination (including, without limitation, an entity that, as a result of such transaction, owns the Company or all or substantially all of the Company’s assets either directly or through one or more subsidiaries) in substantially the same proportions as their ownership immediately prior to such Business Combination of the Outstanding Company Common Stock and the Outstanding Company Voting Securities, as the case may be, (ii) no Person (excluding any corporation resulting from such Business Combination or any employee benefit plan (or related trust) of the Company or such corporation resulting from such Business Combination) beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 30% or more of, respectively, the then-outstanding shares of common stock of the corporation resulting from such Business Combination or the combined voting power of the then-outstanding voting securities of such corporation, except to the extent that such ownership existed prior to the Business Combination, and (iii) at least a majority of the members of the board of directors (or, for

a non-corporate entity, equivalent governing body) of the entity resulting from such Business Combination were members of the Incumbent Board at the time of the execution of the initial agreement or of the action of the Board providing for such Business Combination; or

(d) Approval by the stockholders of the Company of a complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company.

EXHIBIT B

GENERAL RELEASE

[Subject to modification to conform with changes in applicable law or regulations after the Execution Date or to reflect execution by Executive’s beneficiary or estate in the event of termination by reason of death]

SEPARATION AGREEMENT AND GENERAL RELEASE

BANC OF CALIFORNIA, INC., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), the BANC OF CALIFORNIA, a California state chartered bank (the “Bank,” and together with the Company, “Employer”) and JARED WOLFF (“Executive”) (collectively the “Parties”) enter into this Separation Agreement and General Release (“General Release”) on the following terms:

WHEREAS, Executive was employed by Employer pursuant to an amended and restated employment agreement entered into by and between Executive and Employer dated as of _________, 2024 (the “Employment Agreement”). Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meaning set forth in the Employment Agreement; and

WHEREAS, the Date of Termination of Executive’s employment with Employer was _______________________, and Executive acknowledges that regardless of signing this General Release, he has received his final paycheck for all wages earned through the Date of Termination, except for any payments which, pursuant to the terms of the Employment Agreement, are not yet due to be paid;

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained in this General Release, the Parties agree as follows:

1.Subject to Executive’s compliance with his promises and agreements contained in this General Release and provided Executive does not revoke this Agreement, Employer shall provide Executive with the [Death and Disability Benefits set forth in Section 8(b)][Severance Benefits set forth in Section 8(c)] of the Employment Agreement.

2.In consideration of the payments and benefits to which Executive is entitled under this General Release, Executive for himself, his heirs, administrators, representatives, executors, successors, and assigns (collectively “Releasors”) does hereby irrevocably and unconditionally release, acquit and forever discharge the Company, the Bank, and their respective parents, subsidiaries, affiliates and divisions (the “Affiliated Entities”) and their respective predecessors and successors and their respective, current and former, trustees, officers, directors, partners, shareholders, agents, employees, attorneys, consultants, independent contractors, and representatives, including, without limitation, all persons acting by, through, under, or in concert with any of them (collectively, “Releasees”), and each of them from any and all charges, complaints, claims, liabilities, obligations, promises, agreements, controversies, damages, remedies, actions, causes of action, suits, rights, demands, costs, losses, debts, and expenses (including attorneys’ fees and costs) of any nature whatsoever, known or unknown, whether in law or equity and whether arising under federal, state, or local law (“Claims”), including without limitation, Claims for personal injury; Claims for breach of any implied or express contract or covenant; Claims for promissory estoppel; Claims for failure to pay wages, benefits, vacation pay, severance pay, attorneys’ fees, or any compensation of any sort; Claims for failure to grant equity or allow equity to vest; Claims for wrongful termination, public policy violations, defamation, interference with contract or

prospective economic advantage, invasion of privacy, fraud, misrepresentation, emotional distress, breach of fiduciary duty, breach of the duty of loyalty or other common law or tort causes of action; Claims of harassment, retaliation or discrimination based upon race, color, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, handicap, medical condition, religion, marital status, or any other protected class or status under federal, state, or local law; Claims arising under or relating to employment, employment contracts, unlawful effort to prevent employment, or unfair or unlawful business practices, including without limitation all claims arising under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (“Title VII”); the Civil Rights Act of 1991; the Civil Rights Acts of 1866 and/or 1871, 42 U.S.C. Section 1981; the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”), 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, 29 U.S.C. § 621 et seq.,; the Older Workers Benefits Protection Act (“OWBPA”); the Family Medical Leave Act, 29 U.S.C. § 2601 et seq.; the California Labor Code; the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (“FEHA”), Cal. Gov. Code § 12900 et seq.; the Occupational Safety and Health Act (“OSHA”), 29 U.S.C. § 651 et seq. or any other health/safety laws, statutes or regulations; the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”), 29 U.S.C. § 1001 et seq.; the Code; the California Family Rights Act (“CFRA”), Cal. Gov. Code § 12945 et seq.; including any amendments to or regulations promulgated under these statutes and including the similar laws of any other states, any state human rights act, or any other applicable federal, state or local employment statute, law or ordinance, which Executive and the Releasors had, now have, or may have in the future against each or any of the Releasees from the beginning of the world until and including the Execution Date (as defined below) (collectively, “Released Claims”).

3.Executive expressly acknowledges and agrees that (a) Executive has carefully read this General Release and fully understands what it means, including the fact that he is waiving any Claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act as of the Execution Date; (b) Executive has been advised in writing to consult an independent attorney of Executive’s choice before signing this General Release; (c) Executive has been given twenty-one (21) calendar days to consider this General Release, or, in the case of a group termination as set forth in 29 U.S.C. §626(f)(1)(F)(ii), forty-five (45) days; (d) in the case of a group termination as set forth in 29 U.S.C. §626(f)(1)(F)(ii), Executive has been provided the information required by 29 U.S.C. §626(f)(1)(H); (e) Executive has agreed to this General Release knowingly and voluntarily of Executive’s own free will; (f) in consideration of Executive’s promises contained in this General Release, he is receiving consideration beyond that to which he is otherwise entitled, including, without limitation, the [Death and Disability Benefits][Severance Benefits]; (g) Executive may revoke Executive’s waiver and release of Claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act within seven (7) calendar days after the Execution Date by sending a written notice of revocation to the address of Employer as set forth in Section 24 of the Employment Agreement; (h) except for Executive’s waiver and release of Claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, which shall not become effective or enforceable as to any Releasee until the date upon which the revocation period has expired without revocation by Executive, this General Release shall become effective on the Execution Date; and (i) this General Release does not release, acquit or discharge any rights or Claims that may arise for actions or omissions after the Execution Date and Executive is not releasing, acquitting or discharging any Claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act that may arise after the Execution Date. Executive understands and agrees that modifications or amendments to this General Release will not restart the twenty-one (21) or forty-five (45) day consideration period, as applicable, set forth in this Section 3. For avoidance of doubt, if Executive revokes his waiver and release of Claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act pursuant to this section, Employer will not provide any of the [Death and Disability Benefits][Severance Benefits].

4.Notwithstanding anything else to the contrary in this General Release, this General Release shall not affect: the obligations of the Company set forth in the Employment Agreement or any indemnification agreement or other obligations that, in each case with respect to such other obligations, by their terms, are to be performed after the Execution Date, including, without limitation, Executive’s rights to any vested benefits, vested pension rights or vested rights to equity; any obligations of the Bank to repay any bank deposits; obligations to indemnify Executive respecting acts or omissions in connection with Executive’s service as a director, officer or employee of the Affiliated Entities; obligations with respect to insurance coverage under any of the Affiliated Entities’ (or any of their respective successors) directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies; any right Executive may have to obtain contribution in the event of the entry of judgment against Executive as a result of any act or failure to act for which both Executive and any of the Affiliated Entities are jointly responsible; any right to amounts payable under any applicable workers’ compensation or unemployment compensation law; or any Claim that may not lawfully be waived.

5.Executive represents that, except for anonymous whistleblower complaints filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or other Government Agencies, the Releasors have not initiated, filed, or caused to be filed any private Released Claims against any of the Releasees. Executive further agrees not to initiate, file, cause to be filed, or otherwise pursue any private Released Claims, either as an individual on his own behalf, or as a representative, member or shareholder in a class, collective or derivative action and further agrees not to encourage any person, including any current or former employee of the Releasees, to file any kind of private Claim against the Releasees. Executive, however, retains the right to challenge the validity of the waiver of Executive’s Claims under the Age Discrimination in Employment Act set forth in Sections 2 and 3 of this General Release.

6.Executive further acknowledges that he may hereafter discover claims or facts in addition to or different than those that he now knows or believes to exist with respect to the subject matter of this General Release and that, if known or suspected at the time of entering into this General Release, may have materially affected this General Release and Executive’s decision to enter into it. Nevertheless, Executive hereby waives any right, claim or cause of action that might arise as a result of such different or additional claims or facts and Executive expressly waives any and all rights and benefits confirmed upon him by the provisions of California Civil Code Section 1542, which provides as follows:

“A GENERAL RELEASE DOES NOT EXTEND TO CLAIMS THAT THE CREDITOR OR RELEASING PARTY DOES NOT KNOW OR SUSPECT TO EXIST IN HIS OR HER FAVOR AT THE TIME OF EXECUTING THE RELEASE AND THAT, IF KNOWN BY HIM OR HER, WOULD HAVE MATERIALLY AFFECTED HIS OR HER SETTLEMENT WITH THE DEBTOR OR RELEASED PARTY.”

Executive further expressly waives any rights he may have under California Civil Code Section 1542, as well as under any other statute or common law principles of similar effect in any other jurisdiction determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to apply.

7.This General Release shall be construed, enforced and interpreted in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of California, without reference to its principles of conflict of laws.

8.The Parties intend for the provisions of this General Release to be enforced to the fullest extent permissible under all applicable laws and public policies. They also intend that unenforceability

or the modification to conform with those laws or public policies of any provision of this General Release shall not render unenforceable or impair the remainder of this General Release. Accordingly, if any provision shall be determined to be invalid or unenforceable either in whole or in part, this General Release shall be deemed amended to delete or modify as necessary the invalid or unenforceable provisions to alter the balance of this General Release in order to render the same valid and enforceable.

9.This General Release may not be orally cancelled, changed, modified or amended, and no cancellation, change, modification or amendment shall be effective or binding, unless in writing and signed by both parties to this General Release.

10.In the event of the breach or a threatened breach by Executive of any of the provisions of this General Release, the Releasees would suffer irreparable harm, and in addition and supplementary to other rights and remedies existing in its favor, the Releasees shall be entitled to specific performance and/or injunctive or other equitable relief from a court of competent jurisdiction in order to enforce or prevent any violations of the provisions hereof without posting a bond or other security.

11.Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this General Release, Executive understands that nothing in this General Release is intended to prohibit Executive, and Executive is not prohibited, from providing information to, responding to any inquiries from, reporting possible violations of law or regulation to, filing charges with, making disclosures protected under the whistleblower provisions of U.S. federal or California state law or regulation, or participating in investigations of any Government Agency. Accordingly, Executive does not need the prior authorization of Employer to make any such reports or disclosures or otherwise communicate with Government Agencies and is not required to notify Employer that he has engaged in any such communications or made any such reports or disclosures. Executive agrees, however, to waive any right to receive any monetary award resulting from such a report, charge, disclosure, investigation or proceeding, except that Executive may receive and fully retain any bounty or monetary award from a whistleblower award program administered by a Government Agency. Furthermore, nothing in this General Release is intended to prevent Executive from discussing or disclosing information about unlawful acts in the workplace, such as harassment or discrimination, or any other acts that Executive has reason to believe are unlawful. In addition, Executive is hereby notified that 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b) states as follows:

Accordingly, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this General Release, Executive understands that he has the right to disclose in confidence trade secrets to federal, state, and local

government officials, or to an attorney, for the sole purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law. Executive understands that he also has the right to disclose trade secrets in a document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, but only if the filing is made under seal and protected from public disclosure. In addition, Executive understands that in the event he files a lawsuit for retaliation for reporting a suspected violation of law, he has the right to disclose trade secrets to his attorney and use trade secrets in such court proceeding, but only if Executive files any document containing the trade secrets under seal and only discloses such trade secrets pursuant to court order. Executive understands and acknowledges that nothing in this Agreement is intended to conflict with 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b) or create liability for disclosures of trade secrets that are expressly allowed by 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b).

(Signature page to follow)

Executive has executed this General Release on __________________, 20_____ (the “Execution Date”).

BANC OF CALIFORNIA, INC.

By:

Name:

Title:

Date:

BANC OF CALIFORNIA

By:

Name:

Title:

Date:

EXECUTIVE

Jared Wolff

Date:

EXHIBIT C

ARBITRATION AGREEMENT

This Arbitration Agreement (“Agreement”), dated as of the Effective Date is between BANC OF CALIFORNIA, INC., a Maryland corporation (the “Company”), the BANC OF CALIFORNIA, a California state chartered bank (the “Bank,” and together with the Company, “Employer”) and JARED WOLFF (“Executive”) (collectively, the “Parties”):

Whereas, Executive entered into an amended and restated employment agreement with Employer as of May 17, 2024 (the “Employment Agreement”). Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Agreement shall have the meaning set forth in the Employment Agreement.

In order to resolve all disputes between them as expeditiously as possible, Employer and Executive agree as follows:

1.Arbitrable Claims.

(a)To the fullest extent permitted by law, and except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, any and all claims or controversies between Employer and Executive (or between Executive and any present or former officer, director, agent, or employee of Employer or any parent, subsidiary, or other entity affiliated with Employer) relating in any manner to the employment or the termination of employment of Executive shall be resolved by final and binding arbitration (“Arbitrable Claims”).

(b)Arbitrable Claims shall include, but not be limited to, contract claims, tort claims, and claims relating to compensation, benefits, and stock options, as well as claims based on any federal, state, or local law, statute, or regulation, including but not limited to any claims arising under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, the California Labor Code, the California Unfair Competition Law, and the California Wage Orders.

(c)Notwithstanding the foregoing, Arbitrable Claims shall not include claims for unemployment benefits, workers’ compensation claims, claims under the National Labor Relations Act, or claims precluded by federal statute from agreements for pre-dispute arbitration (collectively, “Excluded Claims”).

(d)Arbitration shall be final and binding upon the parties and shall be the exclusive remedy for all Arbitrable Claims.

2.Arbitration Procedure.

(a)Except as specifically provided herein, any arbitration proceeding shall be conducted in accordance with the then current JAMS Employment Arbitration Rules & Procedures (the “Arbitration Rules”) to the extent not inconsistent with this Agreement. A copy of the current Arbitration Rules is attached. The Arbitration Rules are also available for review at www.jamsadr.com/rules-employment-arbitration.

(b)Arbitration shall be initiated by the aggrieved party giving all other parties written notice as described in this paragraph (“Notice of Dispute”). Written notice of a claim by

Executive shall be mailed by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, to Executive’s last address in the records of the Company. Written notice of a claim by Employer shall be mailed to the last known address of Executive. The Notice of Dispute shall identify and describe the nature of all claims asserted, the facts upon which such claims are based, and the relief sought.

3.Arbitrator Selection and Authority.

(a)A neutral and impartial arbitrator shall be chosen by mutual agreement of the parties; however, if the parties are unable to agree upon an arbitrator within sixty (60) days after date of the Notice of Dispute, then a neutral and impartial arbitrator shall be appointed in accordance with the Arbitration Rules. The arbitrator shall have exclusive authority to resolve all Arbitrable Claims, except that a court and not the arbitrator shall determine arbitrability and whether all or any part of this Agreement is void or unenforceable. The arbitrator’s authority shall include the authority to rule on a motion to dismiss and/or summary judgment by either party, and the arbitrator shall apply the standards governing such motions under the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. The arbitrator shall prepare a written decision containing the essential findings and conclusions on which any decision or award is based. The arbitrator shall apply the same substantive law with the same statutes of limitations and same individual remedies that would apply if the claims were brought in a court of law.

(b)The arbitrator shall also have the authority to award costs and fees to the prevailing party as provided by applicable law to the same extent as a court. Otherwise, each party shall pay its own costs and attorney’s fees. Employer shall pay the costs and fees of the arbitrator and reimburse Executive for any filing fees paid to initiate arbitration.

(c)The arbitrator shall not have the authority to adjudicate class, collective, or representative claims (including without limitation claims under the California Private Attorneys General Act on behalf of any person other than Executive individually), to award any class, collective, or other representative relief on behalf of any person other than Executive, or, without all parties’ consent, to consolidate the claims of two or more individuals, or otherwise preside over any form of a class, collective, or other representative proceeding.

4.Actions To Compel Arbitration or Enforce Award. Either Employer or Executive may bring an action in court to compel arbitration under this Agreement and to enforce an arbitration award. Otherwise, neither party shall initiate or prosecute any lawsuit in any way related to any Arbitrable Claim. Nothing in this Agreement, however, precludes a party from filing an administrative charge with an agency that has jurisdiction over a claim that is otherwise arbitrable. Moreover, nothing in this Agreement prohibits either party from seeking provisional relief pursuant to Section 1281.8 of the California Code of Civil Procedure.

5.Location of Arbitration. All arbitration hearings under this Agreement shall be conducted in the California county in which the Company’s headquarters are located, unless otherwise agreed by the parties.

6.Waiver of Jury Trial. The parties understand and agree that by entering into this Agreement, they are each waiving the right to a trial by jury.

7.Waiver of Class, Representative, and Collective Claims. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Executive and Employer each waives any right either may have to bring any class, collective, or representative action against the other party, whether in arbitration, in court, or otherwise, or to

participate as a member of any class or collective action against the other party (“Waived Claims”). If a court or an arbitrator determines in any proceeding between the Parties that any such claims cannot be waived, then the non-waivable claims shall be adjudicated in court or such other forum as provided by law and not in arbitration.

8.Bifurcation and Stay. In the event either party asserts against the other party in a judicial forum both Arbitrable Claims and also Excluded Claims and/or Waived Claims, then such claims shall be bifurcated as follows: (a) Arbitrable Claims shall be subject to arbitration and (b) all Excluded Claims and any Waived Claims that a court or arbitrator in any proceeding between the Parties determines cannot lawfully be waived shall be adjudicated in court or such other forum as provided by law and not in arbitration. To the extent permitted by law, all such claims to be adjudicated outside of arbitration shall be stayed for the duration of the arbitration proceedings.

9.Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the Federal Arbitration Act and, to the extent permitted by such Act, the laws of the State of California.

10.Severability. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held to be invalid, unenforceable, or void, by a court of competent jurisdiction or an arbitrator such provision shall be stricken from this Agreement, and the remainder of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.

11.Entire Agreement; Amendment. Employer and Executive understand and agree that this Agreement contains a full and complete statement of any agreements and understandings regarding resolution of disputes between the parties, and the parties agree that this Agreement supersedes all previous agreements, whether written or oral, express or implied, relating to the subjects covered in this Agreement. The parties also agree that the terms of this Agreement cannot be revoked or modified except in a written document signed by both Executive and an officer of Employer.

12.Term of Agreement. This Agreement shall be effective as of the Effective Date and shall survive the termination of Executive’s employment with Employer.

13.Acknowledgement. The parties voluntarily have entered into this Agreement, and they acknowledge that they have been given the opportunity to discuss this agreement with legal counsel and to review the Arbitration Rules before signing this agreement, and they have availed themselves of this opportunity to the extent they wish to do so.

(Signature page to follow)

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the date first set forth above.

BANC OF CALIFORNIA, INC.

By: /s/ John Eggemeyer

Name: John Eggemeyer

Title: Chairman of the Board

Date: 5/20/2024

BANC OF CALIFORNIA

By: /s/ John Eggemeyer

Name: John Eggemeyer

Title: Director

Date: 5/20/2024

EXECUTIVE

/s/ Jared Wolff

Jared Wolff

Date: 5/19/2024

Exhibit 16.1

May 20, 2024

Securities and Exchange Commission
Washington, District of Columbia 20549

Ladies and Gentlemen:

We were previously principal accountants for Banc of California, Inc. and subsidiaries (the Company) and, under the date of February 29, 2024, we reported on the consolidated financial statements of the Company as of and for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. On May 14, 2024, we were dismissed.

We have read the Company’s statements included under Item 4.01 of its Form 8-K dated May 20, 2024, and we agree with such statements, except that we are not in a position to agree or disagree with the Company’s statement regarding the selection process to identify its new public accounting firm, that the decision to dismiss KPMG was approved by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors, or any statements under Item 4.01 (b).

Very truly yours,

/s/ KPMG LLP

KPMG LLP

Irvine, California

Cover Page Document	May 14, 2024
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	8-K
Document Period End Date	May 14, 2024
Entity Registrant Name	BANC OF CALIFORNIA, INC.
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	MD
Entity File Number	001-35522
Entity Tax Identification Number	04-3639825
Entity Address, Address Line One	11611 San Vicente Boulevard, Suite 500
Entity Address, City or Town	Los Angeles
Entity Address, State or Province	CA
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	90049
City Area Code	855
Local Phone Number	361-2262
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Central Index Key	0001169770
Written Communications	false
Soliciting Material	false
Pre-commencement Tender Offer	false
Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Common Stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share
Trading Symbol	BANC
Security Exchange Name	NYSE
Series F Preferred Stock
Document Information [Line Items]
Title of 12(b) Security	Depositary Shares, each representing a 1/40th interest in a share of 7.75% fixed rate reset non-cumulative perpetual preferred stock, Series F
Trading Symbol	BANC/PF
Security Exchange Name	NYSE