SVB FINANCIAL GROUP, 10-K filed on 3/1/2021
Annual Report
v3.20.4
Cover Page - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Jan. 31, 2021
Jun. 30, 2020
Entity Information [Line Items]      
Document Type 10-K    
Document Annual Report true    
Document Transition Report false    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2020    
Entity File Number 000-15637    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2020    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Entity Registrant Name SVB FINANCIAL GROUP    
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE    
Entity Tax Identification Number 91-1962278    
Entity Central Index Key 0000719739    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity Emerging Growth Company false    
Entity Small Business false    
Entity Shell Company false    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   51,949,900  
Entity Address, Address Line One 3003 Tasman Drive    
Entity Address, City or Town Santa Clara    
Entity Address, State or Province CA    
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 95054-1191    
City Area Code 408    
Local Phone Number 654-7400    
Entity Public Float     $ 10,704,636,319
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag true    
Documents Incorporated by Reference Definitive proxy statement for the Company's 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed within 120 days of the end of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020    
Common Stock      
Entity Information [Line Items]      
Title of 12(b) Security Common stock, par value $0.001 per share    
Trading Symbol SIVB    
Security Exchange Name NASDAQ    
Preferred Stock, Series A      
Entity Information [Line Items]      
Title of 12(b) Security Depositary shares, each representing a 1/40th ownership interest in a share of 5.250% Fixed-Rate Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A    
Trading Symbol SIVBP    
Security Exchange Name NASDAQ    
v3.20.4
Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Assets    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 17,674,763 $ 6,781,783
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value (cost of $30,244,896 and $13,894,348, respectively) 30,912,438 14,014,919
Held-to-maturity securities, at amortized cost and net of allowance for credit losses of $392 and $0 (fair value of $17,216,871 and $14,115,272, respectively) (1) [1] 16,592,153 13,842,946
Non-marketable and other equity securities 1,802,235 1,213,829
Total investment securities 49,306,826 29,071,694
Loans, amortized cost 45,181,488 33,164,636
Allowance for credit loss (447,765) (304,924)
Net loans 44,733,723 32,859,712
Premises and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization 175,818 161,876
Goodwill 142,685 137,823
Other intangible assets, net 61,435 49,417
Lease right-of-use assets 209,932 197,365
Accrued interest receivable and other assets 3,205,825 1,745,233
Total assets 115,511,007 71,004,903
Liabilities:    
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits 66,519,240 40,841,570
Interest-bearing deposits 35,462,567 20,916,237
Total deposits 101,981,807 61,757,807
Short-term borrowings 20,553 17,430
Lease liabilities 259,554 218,847
Other liabilities 3,971,974 2,041,752
Long-term debt 843,628 347,987
Total liabilities 107,077,516 64,383,823
Commitments and contingencies (Note 21 and Note 27)
SVBFG stockholders’ equity:    
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized; 350,000 and 350,000 shares issued and outstanding, respectively 340,138 340,138
Common stock, $0.001 par value, 150,000,000 shares authorized; 51,888,463 and 51,655,607 shares issued and outstanding, respectively 52 52
Additional paid-in capital 1,585,244 1,470,071
Retained earnings 5,671,749 4,575,601
Accumulated other comprehensive income 622,517 84,445
Total SVBFG stockholders’ equity 8,219,700 6,470,307
Noncontrolling interests 213,791 150,773
Total equity 8,433,491 6,621,080
Total liabilities and total equity $ 115,511,007 $ 71,004,903
[1] Prior to our adoption of Accounting Standard Update (ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments) on January 1, 2020, the allowance for credit losses related to held-to-maturity (HTM) securities was not applicable and is therefore presented as zero at December 31, 2019. See "Adoption of New Accounting Standards" in Note 2—“Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” for additional details.
v3.20.4
Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]    
Available-for-sale securities, amortized cost $ 30,244,896 $ 13,894,348
Allowance for Credit Losses 392 0
Held-to-maturity securities $ 17,216,871 $ 14,115,272
Preferred stock, par value $ 0.001 $ 0.001
Preferred stock, shares authorized 20,000,000 20,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued 350,000 350,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding 350,000 350,000
Common stock, par value $ 0.001 $ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized 150,000,000 150,000,000
Common stock, shares, issued 51,888,463 51,655,607
Common stock, shares outstanding 51,888,463 51,655,607
v3.20.4
Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Interest income:      
Loans $ 1,520,021 $ 1,599,165 $ 1,358,480
Investment securities:      
Taxable 634,992 568,851 541,605
Non-taxable 61,055 44,952 34,616
Federal funds sold, securities purchased under agreements to resell and other short-term investment securities 25,542 96,440 35,208
Total interest income 2,241,610 2,309,408 1,969,909
Interest expense:      
Deposits 60,219 177,672 29,306
Borrowings 25,107 35,135 46,615
Total interest expense 85,326 212,807 75,921
Net interest income 2,156,284 2,096,601 1,893,988
Provision for credit losses 219,510 106,416 87,870
Net interest income after provision for credit losses 1,936,774 1,990,185 1,806,118
Noninterest income:      
Gains on investment securities, net 420,752 134,670 88,094
Gains on equity warrant assets, net 237,428 138,078 89,142
Client investment fees 132,200 182,068 130,360
Foreign exchange fees 178,733 159,262 138,812
Credit card fees 97,737 118,719 94,072
Deposit service charges 90,336 89,200 76,097
Lending related fees 57,533 49,920 41,949
Letters of credit and standby letters of credit fees 46,659 42,669 34,600
Investment banking revenue 413,985 195,177 0
Commissions 66,640 56,346 0
Other 98,145 55,370 51,858
Noninterest income 1,840,148 1,221,479 744,984
Noninterest expense:      
Compensation and benefits 1,318,457 989,734 726,980
Professional services 247,084 205,479 158,835
Premises and equipment 127,125 96,770 77,918
Net occupancy 100,889 69,279 54,753
Business development and travel 23,724 68,912 48,180
FDIC and state assessments 27,587 18,509 34,276
Other 190,175 152,579 87,251
Total noninterest expense 2,035,041 1,601,262 1,188,193
Income before income tax expense 1,741,881 1,610,402 1,362,909
Income tax expense 447,587 425,685 351,561
Net income before noncontrolling interests 1,294,294 1,184,717 1,011,348
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (85,926) (47,861) (37,508)
Preferred stock dividends (17,151) 0 0
Net income available to common stockholders $ 1,191,217 $ 1,136,856 $ 973,840
Earnings per common share—basic (usd per share) $ 23.05 $ 21.90 $ 18.35
Earnings per common share—diluted (usd per share) $ 22.87 $ 21.73 $ 18.11
v3.20.4
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]      
Net income before noncontrolling interests $ 1,294,294 $ 1,184,717 $ 1,011,348
Change in foreign currency cumulative translation gains and losses:      
Foreign currency translation gains (losses) 16,467 3,208 (5,999)
Related tax (expense) benefit (4,621) (889) 1,669
Change in unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities:      
Unrealized holding gains (losses) 606,038 189,813 (22,348)
Related tax (expense) benefit (168,521) (52,697) 6,315
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income (61,165) 3,905 740
Related tax expense (benefit) 16,953 (1,087) (205)
Reclassification of unrealized gains on equity securities to retained earnings for ASU 2016-01 0 0 (40,316)
Related tax expense 0 0 11,145
Amortization of unrealized holding losses (gains) on securities transferred from available-for-sale to held-to-maturity 2,104 (2,158) (4,607)
Related tax (expense) benefit (586) 600 1,277
Reclassification of stranded tax effect to retained earnings for ASU 2018-02 0 0 (319)
Change in unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges:      
Unrealized gains (losses) 231,920 (8,305) 0
Related tax (expenses) benefit (64,281) 2,306 0
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income (49,928) 5,358 0
Related tax expense (benefit) 13,692 (1,489) 0
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 538,072 138,565 (52,648)
Comprehensive income 1,832,366 1,323,282 958,700
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (85,926) (47,861) (37,508)
Comprehensive income attributable to SVBFG $ 1,746,440 $ 1,275,421 $ 921,192
v3.20.4
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Total
Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment
Preferred Stock
Common Stock
Additional Paid-in Capital
Retained Earnings
Retained Earnings
Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment
Total SVBFG Stockholders’ Equity
Total SVBFG Stockholders’ Equity
Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment
Noncontrolling Interests
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2017       52,835,188                
Balance, beginning of period, net of tax at Dec. 31, 2017 $ 4,319,415   $ 0 $ 53 $ 1,314,377 $ 2,866,837   $ (1,472)   $ 4,179,795   $ 139,620
Balance, beginning of period, net of tax (Accounting Standards Update 2014-09) at Dec. 31, 2017   $ (5,802)         $ (5,802)       $ (5,802)  
Balance, beginning of period, net of tax (Accounting Standards Update 2016-01) at Dec. 31, 2017   74,595         103,766   $ (29,171)   74,595  
Balance, beginning of period, net of tax (Accounting Standards Update 2018-02) at Dec. 31, 2017   0         319   $ (319)   0  
Common stock issued under employee benefit plans, net of restricted stock cancellations (in shares)       456,845                
Common stock issued under employee benefit plans, net of restricted stock cancellations 15,810     $ 1 15,809         15,810    
Common stock issued under ESOP (in shares)       9,672                
Common stock issued under ESOP 2,577       2,577         2,577    
Net income 1,011,348         973,840       973,840   37,508
Capital calls and distributions, net (28,494)                     (28,494)
Net change in unrealized gains and losses on AFS securities, net of tax (15,498)             (15,498)   (15,498)    
Amortization of unrealized gains on securities transferred from AFS to HTM, net of tax (3,330)             (3,330)   (3,330)    
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax (4,330)             (4,330)   (4,330)    
Share-based compensation, net 45,675       45,675         45,675    
Common stock repurchases (in shares)       (715,207)                
Common stock repurchases (147,123)     $ (1)   (147,122)       (147,123)    
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018       52,586,498                
Balance, end of period, net of tax at Dec. 31, 2018 5,264,843   0 $ 53 1,378,438 3,791,838   (54,120)   5,116,209   148,634
Balance, end of period, net of tax (Accounting Standards Update 2017-08) at Dec. 31, 2018 [1]   (583)         (583)       (583)  
Common stock issued under employee benefit plans, net of restricted stock cancellations (in shares)       586,877                
Common stock issued under employee benefit plans, net of restricted stock cancellations 21,312     $ 0 21,312         21,312    
Common stock issued under ESOP (in shares)       14,442                
Common stock issued under ESOP 3,506       3,506         3,506    
Net income 1,184,717         1,136,856       1,136,856   47,861
Capital calls and distributions, net (50,978)                     (50,978)
Net change in unrealized gains and losses on AFS securities, net of tax 139,934             139,934   139,934    
Amortization of unrealized gains on securities transferred from AFS to HTM, net of tax (1,558)             (1,558)   (1,558)    
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax 2,319             2,319   2,319    
Net change in unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges, net of tax (2,130)             (2,130)   (2,130)    
Share-based compensation, net 66,815       66,815         66,815    
Common stock repurchases (in shares)       (1,532,210)                
Common stock repurchases (352,511)     $ (1)   (352,510)       (352,511)    
Acquisition of SVB Leerink 5,256                     5,256
Issuance of Series A Preferred Stock 340,138   340,138             340,138    
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019       51,655,607                
Balance, end of period, net of tax at Dec. 31, 2019 6,621,080   340,138 $ 52 1,470,071 4,575,601   84,445   6,470,307   150,773
Balance, end of period, net of tax (ASC 326) at Dec. 31, 2019 [1]   $ (35,049)         $ (35,049)       $ (35,049)  
Common stock issued under employee benefit plans, net of restricted stock cancellations (in shares)       464,985                
Common stock issued under employee benefit plans, net of restricted stock cancellations 28,699     $ 0 28,699         28,699    
Common stock issued under ESOP (in shares)       12,094                
Common stock issued under ESOP 2,447       2,447         2,447    
Net income 1,294,294         1,208,368       1,208,368   85,926
Capital calls and distributions, net (22,908)                     (22,908)
Net change in unrealized gains and losses on AFS securities, net of tax 393,305             393,305   393,305    
Amortization of unrealized gains on securities transferred from AFS to HTM, net of tax 1,518             1,518   1,518    
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of tax 11,846             11,846   11,846    
Net change in unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges, net of tax 131,403             131,403   131,403    
Share-based compensation, net $ 83,986       83,986         83,986    
Common stock repurchases (in shares) (244,223)     (244,223)                
Common stock repurchases $ (60,020)     $ 0   (60,020)       (60,020)    
Dividends on preferred stock (17,151)                 (17,151)    
Other, net 41       41         41    
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020       51,888,463                
Balance, end of period, net of tax at Dec. 31, 2020 $ 8,433,491   $ 340,138 $ 52 $ 1,585,244 $ 5,671,749   $ 622,517   $ 8,219,700   $ 213,791
[1] See Note 2- "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" for additional details.
v3.20.4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net income before noncontrolling interests $ 1,294,294 $ 1,184,717 $ 1,011,348
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Provision for credit losses 219,510 106,416 87,870
Gains on investment securities, net (420,752) (134,670) (88,094)
Distributions of earnings from non-marketable and other equity securities 85,587 95,131 72,015
Depreciation and amortization 100,840 82,717 57,906
Amortization of premiums and discounts on investment securities, net 75,178 15,513 (28)
Amortization of share-based compensation 83,986 66,815 45,675
Amortization of deferred loan fees (173,975) (155,429) (128,077)
Deferred income tax expense (benefit) 6,911 (3,072) (21,061)
Excess tax benefit from exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted shares (5,857) (9,588) (17,989)
Losses from the write-off of premises and equipment and right-of-use assets 30,170 5,219 7,278
Other losses 0 8,959 0
Changes in other assets and liabilities:      
Accrued interest receivable and payable, net (26,205) (24,189) (55,834)
Accounts receivable and payable, net 18,765 (17,019) (23,020)
Income tax receivable and payable, net 97,607 (11,630) (5,820)
Accrued compensation 190,983 (15,253) 56,874
Foreign exchange spot contracts, net (20,790) 59,998 24,018
Proceeds from termination of interest rate swaps 227,500 0 0
Other, net (287,905) (74,240) (54,039)
Net cash provided by operating activities 1,445,487 1,164,129 933,562
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Purchases of available-for-sale securities (23,207,791) (9,872,095) (668,264)
Proceeds from sales of available-for-sale securities 2,654,212 2,189,087 474,482
Proceeds from maturities and paydowns of available-for-sale securities 4,183,888 1,643,357 3,436,064
Purchases of held-to-maturity securities (6,778,370) (492,502) (4,726,595)
Proceeds from maturities and paydowns of held-to-maturity securities 4,035,952 2,124,513 1,891,761
Purchases of non-marketable and other equity securities (201,293) (136,186) (81,574)
Proceeds from sales and distributions of capital of non-marketable and other equity securities 148,224 113,526 95,025
Net increase in loans (11,926,436) (4,773,775) (5,175,409)
Purchases of premises and equipment (87,407) (65,479) (45,865)
Business acquisitions (26,700) (102,328) 0
Net cash used for investing activities (31,205,721) (9,371,882) (4,800,375)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Net increase in deposits 40,224,000 12,428,907 5,074,825
Net increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings 3,123 (613,982) (402,318)
Principal payments of long-term debt 0 (358,395) 0
Proceeds from issuance of 3.125% Senior Notes 495,024 0 0
(Distributions to noncontrolling interests), net of contributions from noncontrolling interests (22,908) (50,978) (28,494)
Net proceeds from the issuance of preferred stock 0 340,138 0
Payment of preferred stock dividends (17,151) 0 0
Common stock repurchase (60,020) (352,511) (147,123)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, ESPP and ESOP 31,146 24,818 18,387
Net cash provided by financing activities 40,653,214 11,417,997 4,515,277
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 10,892,980 3,210,244 648,464
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 6,781,783 3,571,539 2,923,075
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 17,674,763 6,781,783 3,571,539
Cash paid during the period for:      
Interest 83,746 217,961 75,601
Income taxes 299,175 422,346 376,425
Noncash items during the period:      
Changes in unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, net of tax 393,305 139,934 (15,498)
Distributions of stock from investments 11,913 8,917 5,277
Retained Earnings      
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net income before noncontrolling interests 1,208,368 1,136,856 973,840
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Payment of preferred stock dividends (17,151)    
Equity warrant assets      
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Changes in fair value of derivatives (2,347) 2,240 (24,417)
Derivative      
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Changes in fair value of derivatives $ (48,013) $ (18,506) $ (11,043)
v3.20.4
Nature of Business
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Nature of Business Nature of Business
SVB Financial Group is a diversified financial services company, as well as a bank holding company and a financial holding company. SVB Financial was incorporated in the state of Delaware in March 1999. Through our various subsidiaries and divisions, we offer a diverse set of banking and financial products and services to support our clients of all sizes and stages throughout their life cycles. In these notes to our consolidated financial statements, when we refer to “SVB Financial Group,” “SVBFG”, the “Company,” “we,” “our,” “us” or use similar words, we mean SVB Financial Group and all of its subsidiaries collectively, including Silicon Valley Bank (the “Bank”), unless the context requires otherwise. When we refer to “SVB Financial” or the “Parent” we are referring only to the parent company entity, SVB Financial Group (not including subsidiaries).
We offer commercial banking products and services through our principal subsidiary, the Bank, which is a California-chartered bank founded in 1983 and a member of the Federal Reserve System. Through its subsidiaries, the Bank also offers asset management, private wealth management and other investment services. In addition, through SVB Financial's other subsidiaries and divisions, we offer investment banking and non-banking products and services, such as funds management and M&A advisory services. We primarily focus on serving corporate clients in the following industries: technology, life science/healthcare, private equity/venture capital and premium wine. Our corporate clients range widely in terms of size and stage of maturity. Additionally, we focus on cultivating strong relationships with firms within the venture capital and private equity community worldwide, many of which are also our clients and may invest in our corporate clients.
Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, we operate in centers of innovation in the United States and around the world.
For reporting purposes, SVB Financial Group has four operating segments for which we report financial information in this report: Global Commercial Bank, SVB Private Bank, SVB Capital and SVB Leerink.
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Use of Estimates and Assumptions
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates may change as new information is obtained. Items that are subject to such estimates include: 1) measurements of fair value, which include the valuation of non-marketable and other equity securities and the valuation of equity warrant assets, 2) income taxes, and 3) the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses for loans and the allowance for credit losses for unfunded credit commitments. The following discussion of significant accounting policies includes further details regarding these estimates.
Principles of Consolidation and Presentation
Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of SVB Financial Group and consolidated entities. We consolidate voting entities in which we have control through voting interests or entities through which we have a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity ("VIE"). We determine whether we have a controlling financial interest in a VIE by determining if we have (a) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, (b) the obligation to absorb the expected losses or (c) the right to receive the expected returns of the entity. Generally, we have significant variable interests if our commitments to a limited partnership investment represent a significant amount of the total commitments to the entity. We also evaluate the impact of related parties on our determination of variable interests in our consolidation conclusions. We consolidate VIEs in which we are the primary beneficiary based on a controlling financial interest. If we are not the primary beneficiary of a VIE, we record our pro-rata interests based on our ownership percentage.
VIEs are entities where investors lack sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or equity investors and, as a group, lack one of the following characteristics: (a) the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, (b) the obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity or (c) the right to receive the expected returns of the entity. We assess VIEs to determine if we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE. A primary beneficiary is defined as a variable interest holder that has a controlling financial interest. A controlling financial interest requires both: (a) the power to direct the activities that most significantly
impact the VIEs economic performance, and (b) the obligation to absorb losses or receive benefits of a VIE that could potentially be significant to a VIE. Under this analysis, we also evaluate kick-out rights and other participating rights, which could provide us a controlling financial interest. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is required to consolidate the VIE.
We also evaluate fees paid to managers of our limited partnership investments. We exclude those fee arrangements that are not deemed to be variable interests from the analysis of our interests in our investments in VIEs and the determination of a primary beneficiary, if any. Fee arrangements based on terms that are customary and commensurate with the services provided are deemed not to be variable interests and are, therefore, excluded.
All significant intercompany accounts and transactions with consolidated entities have been eliminated. We have not provided financial or other support during the periods presented to any VIE that we were not previously contractually required to provide.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, cash balances due from banks, interest-earning deposits, Federal Reserve deposits, federal funds sold, securities purchased under agreements to resell and other short-term investment securities. For the consolidated statements of cash flows, we consider cash equivalents to be investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash, so near to their maturity that they present an insignificant risk of change in fair value due to changes in market interest rates, and purchased in conjunction with our cash management activities.
Investment Securities
Available-for-Sale Securities and the Allowance for Credit Losses on Available-for-Sale Securities
Our available-for-sale securities portfolio is a fixed income investment portfolio that is managed to earn an appropriate portfolio yield over the long-term while maintaining sufficient liquidity and credit diversification and meeting our asset/liability management objectives. Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, net of applicable taxes, are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income, which is a separate component of SVBFG's stockholders' equity, until realized.
We analyze available-for-sale securities for impairment related to credit losses each quarter. Market valuations represent the current fair value of a security at a specified point in time and incorporates the risk of timing of interest due and the return of principal over the contractual life of each security. Gains and losses on securities are realized when there is a sale of the security prior to maturity. A credit impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance against the security with an offset through earnings; the allowance is limited to the amount that fair value, calculated as the present value of expected future cash flow discounted at the security’s effective interest rate, is less than the amortized cost basis. We separate the amount of the impairment related to credit losses, if any, and the amount due to all other factors. The credit loss component is recognized in earnings and recorded as an allowance for credit losses for AFS securities.
We consider numerous factors in determining whether a credit loss exists and the period over which the debt security is expected to recover. The following list is not meant to be all inclusive. All of the following factors are considered:
•The length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than the amortized cost basis (severity and duration);
•Adverse conditions specifically related to the security, an industry or geographic area; for example, changes in the financial condition of the issuer of the security, or in the case of an asset-backed debt security, changes in the financial condition of the underlying loan obligors. Examples of those changes include any of the following:
◦Changes in technology;
◦The discontinuance of a segment of the business that may affect the future earnings potential of the issuer or underlying loan obligors of the security; and
◦Changes in the quality of the credit enhancement.
•The historical and implied volatility of the fair value of the security;
•The payment structure of the debt security and the likelihood of the issuer being able to make payments that increase in the future;
•Failure of the issuer of the security to make scheduled interest or principal payments;
•Any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency; and
•Recoveries or additional declines in fair value after the balance sheet date.
In accordance with ASC 310-20, Receivables-Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs, we use estimates of future principal prepayments, provided by third-party market-data vendors, in addition to actual principal prepayment experience to calculate the constant effective yield necessary to apply the effective interest method in the amortization of purchase discounts or premiums on mortgage-backed securities and fixed rate collateralized mortgage obligations. The accretion and amortization of discounts and premiums, respectively, are included in interest income over the contractual terms of the underlying securities replicating the effective interest method.
Held-to-Maturity Securities and the Allowance for Credit Losses on Held-to-Maturity Securities
Debt securities purchased with the positive intent and ability to hold to its maturity are classified as held-to-maturity securities and are recorded at amortized cost, net of any allowance for credit losses.
Effective January 1, 2020, we measure expected credit losses ("ECL") on held-to-maturity securities on a collective basis by major security type and standard credit rating. Our held-to-maturity securities portfolio, with the exception of our municipal bond portfolio, are either explicitly or implicitly guaranteed by the U.S. government, are highly rated by major rating agencies and have a long history of no credit losses. With respect to these securities, we consider the risk of credit loss to be zero and, therefore, we do not record an ECL. Our municipal bond portfolio primarily consists of highly rated bonds and currently carry ratings no lower than Aa2. The estimate of ECL on our municipal bond portfolio considers historical credit loss information and severity of loss in the event of default and leverages external data adjusted for current conditions. A reasonable and supportable forecast period of one year is applied to our municipal bond portfolio, with immediate reversion to long-term average historical loss rates when remaining contractual lives of securities exceed one year. We do not estimate ECL on accrued interest receivable ("AIR") from held-to-maturity securities as AIR is reversed or written off when the full collection of the AIR related to a security becomes doubtful. AIR from held-to-maturity securities totaled $55.0 million at December 31, 2020 and $45.2 million at December 31, 2019 and is excluded from the amortized cost disclosures within our HTM security disclosures in Note 8—“Investment Securities” as it is included and reported separately within "Accrued interest receivable and other assets" in our consolidated balance sheets.
Expected credit loss on municipal bonds that do not share common risk characteristics with our collective portfolio are individually measured based on net realizable value, or the difference between the discounted value of the expected future cash flows and the recorded amortized cost basis of the security.
Prior to the adoption of CECL, we applied the other-than-temporary impairment standards of ASC 320, Investment-Debt and Equity Securities, for our held-to-maturity securities. For periods prior to January 1, 2020, we separated the amount of the other-than-temporary impairment, if any, into the amount that is credit related (credit loss component) and the amount due to all other factors. The credit loss component is recognized in earnings and is the difference between a security's amortized cost basis and the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the security's effective interest rate. The amount due to all other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income.
Transfers of investment securities into the held-to-maturity category from the available-for-sale category are made at fair value at the date of transfer. The net unrealized gains, net of tax, are retained in other comprehensive income, and the carrying value of the held-to-maturity securities are amortized over the life of the securities in a manner consistent with the amortization of a premium or discount.
Non-Marketable and Other Equity Securities
Non-marketable and other equity securities include investments in venture capital and private equity funds, SPD-SVB, debt funds, private and public portfolio companies, including public equity securities held as a result of equity warrant assets exercised, and investments in qualified affordable housing projects. A majority of these investments are managed through our SVB Capital funds business in funds of funds and direct venture funds. Our accounting for investments in non-marketable and other equity securities depends on several factors, including the level of ownership, power to control and the legal structure of the subsidiary making the investment. As further described below, we base our accounting for such securities on: (i) fair value accounting, (ii) measurement alternative for other investments without a readily determinable fair value, (iii) equity method accounting and (iv) the proportional amortization method which is used only for qualified affordable housing projects.

Fair Value Accounting
Our managed funds are investment companies under the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide for Investment Companies (codified in ASC 946) and accordingly, these funds report their investments at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value reflected as investment gains or losses in our consolidated statements of income. Our non-marketable and other equity securities recorded pursuant to fair value accounting consist of our investments through our managed funds of funds, which make investments in venture capital and private equity funds. A summary of our
ownership interests in the investments held under fair value accounting as of December 31, 2020 is presented in the following table:
Limited partnershipCompany Direct and Indirect Ownership in Limited Partnership
Managed funds of funds
Strategic Investors Fund, LP12.6 %
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP20.0 
Growth Partners, LP33.0 
The general partner interests of these funds are controlled, and in some cases, owned by SVB Financial. The limited partners of these funds do not have substantive participating or kick-out rights. Therefore, these funds are consolidated and any gains or losses resulting from changes in the estimated fair value of the investments are recorded as investment gains or losses in our consolidated net income.
Under fair value accounting, investments are carried at their estimated fair value based on financial information obtained as the general partner of the fund or obtained from the funds' respective general partner. For direct private company investments, valuations are based upon consideration of a range of factors including, but not limited to, the price at which the investment was acquired, the term and nature of the investment, local market conditions, values for comparable securities, current and projected operating performance, exit strategies and financing transactions subsequent to the acquisition of the investment. For direct equity investments in public companies, valuations are based on quoted market prices less a discount if the securities are subject to certain sales restrictions. Sales restriction discounts generally range from ten to twenty depending on the sale restrictions which typically range from three to six months. The valuation of non-marketable securities in shares of private company capital stock and the valuation of other securities in shares of public company stock with certain sales restrictions is subject to significant judgment. The inherent uncertainty in the process of valuing securities for which a ready market does not exist may cause our estimated values of these securities to differ significantly from the values that would have been derived had a ready market for the securities existed, and those differences could be material.
For our fund investments, we utilize the net asset value as obtained from the general partners of the fund investments as the funds do not have a readily determinable fair value. The general partners of our fund investments prepare their financial statements using guidance consistent with fair value accounting. We account for differences between our measurement date and the date of the fund investment's net asset value by using the most recent available financial information from the investee general partner, for example September 30th, for our December 31st consolidated financial statements. We adjust the value of our investments for any contributions paid, distributions received from the investment and known significant fund transactions or market events about which we are aware through information provided by the fund managers or from publicly available transaction data during the reporting period.
Gains or losses resulting from changes in the estimated fair value of the investments and from distributions received are recorded as gains on investment securities, net, a component of noninterest income. The portion of any investment gains or losses attributable to the limited partners is reflected as net income attributable to noncontrolling interests and adjusts our net income to reflect its percentage ownership.
Other Investments without a Readily Determinable Fair Value
Our direct investments in private companies do not have a readily determinable fair value. We measure these investments at cost less impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments from the same issuer. Such changes are recognized through earnings. We consider a range of factors when adjusting the fair value of these investments, including, but not limited to, the term and nature of the investment, local market conditions, values for comparable securities, current and projected operating performance, financing transactions subsequent to the acquisition of the investment and a discount for certain investments that have lock-up restrictions or other features that indicate a discount to fair value is warranted.
Equity Method
Our equity method non-marketable securities consist of investments in venture capital and private equity funds, privately-held companies, debt funds, and joint ventures. Our equity method non-marketable securities and related accounting policies are described as follows:
•Equity securities and investments in limited partnerships, such as preferred or common stock in privately-held companies in which we hold a voting interest of at least 20 percent, or in which we have the ability to exercise significant influence over the investees' operating and financial policies through voting interests, board involvement or other influence are accounted for under the equity method,
•Investments in limited partnerships in which we hold voting interests of more than 5 percent, or in which we have the ability to exercise significant influence over the partnerships' operating and financial policies, are accounted for using the equity method, and
•Our SPD-SVB (the Bank's joint venture bank in China) partnership, for which we have 50 percent ownership, is accounted for under the equity method.
We recognize our proportionate share of the results of operations of these equity method investees in our results of operations, based on the most current financial information available from the investee. We review our investments accounted for under the equity method at least quarterly for possible other-than-temporary impairment. Our review typically includes an analysis of facts and circumstances for each investment, the expectations of the investment's future cash flows and capital needs, variability of its business and the company's exit strategy. For our fund investments, we utilize the net asset value per share as provided by the general partners of the fund investments. We account for differences between our measurement date and the date of the fund investment's net asset value by using the most recent available financial information from the investee general partner, for example September 30th, for our December 31st consolidated financial statements. We adjust the value of our investments for any contributions paid, distributions received from the investment, and known significant fund transactions or market events about which we are aware through information provided by the fund managers or from publicly available transaction data during the reporting period.
We reduce our investment value when we consider declines in value to be other-than-temporary and recognize the estimated loss as a loss on investment securities, a component of noninterest income.
Proportional Amortization Method
In order to fulfill our responsibilities under the Community Reinvestment Act, we invest as a limited partner in low income housing partnerships that operate qualified affordable housing projects and generate tax benefits, including federal low income housing tax credits, for investors. The partnerships are deemed to be VIEs because they do not have sufficient equity investment at risk and are structured with non-substantive voting rights. We are not the primary beneficiary of the VIEs and do not consolidate them. Our investments in low income housing partnerships are recorded in non-marketable and other equity securities within our investment securities portfolio on the consolidated balance sheet. As a practical expedient, we amortize the investment in proportion to the allocated tax benefits under the proportional amortization method of accounting and present such benefits net of investment amortization in income tax expense.
Loans
Loans are reported at amortized cost which consists of the principal amount outstanding, net of unearned loan fees. Unearned loan fees reflect unamortized deferred loan origination and commitment fees net of unamortized deferred loan origination costs. In addition to cash loan fees, we often obtain equity warrant assets that give us an option to purchase a position in a client company's stock in consideration for providing credit facilities. The grant date fair values of these equity warrant assets are deemed to be loan fees and are deferred as unearned income and recognized as an adjustment of loan yield through loan interest income. The net amount of unearned loan fees is amortized into loan interest income over the contractual terms of the underlying loans and commitments using the constant effective yield method, adjusted for actual loan prepayment experience, or the straight-line method, as applicable.
Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans
The allowance for credit losses for loans considers credit risk and is adjusted by a provision for ECL charged to expense and reduced by the charge-off of loan amounts, net of recoveries. Our allowance for credit losses is an estimate of expected losses inherent with the Company's existing loans at the balance sheet date. Determining the appropriateness of the allowance is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.
Portfolio Segments and Risk-Based Segments
The process to estimate the ECL on loans involves procedures to appropriately consider the unique characteristics of our six loan portfolio segments. Our six portfolio segments are determined by using the following risk dimensions: (i) underwriting methodology, (ii) industry niche and (iii) life stage. The six portfolio segments are further disaggregated into 11 classes of financing receivable, or risk-based segments, and represents the level at which credit risk is monitored. Credit quality is assessed and monitored by evaluating various attributes and the results of those evaluations are utilized in underwriting new loans and in our process to estimate ECL. For further information refer to Note 9—“Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans and Unfunded Credit Commitments.” The following provides additional information regarding our six portfolio segments and the additional disaggregation of our 11 risk-based segments:
Global Fund Banking
The vast majority of our Global Fund Banking (formerly Private Equity/Venture Capital) portfolio segment consists of capital call lines of credit, the repayment of which is dependent on the payment of capital calls by the underlying limited partner investors in the funds managed by certain private equity and venture capital firms. These facilities are generally governed by meaningful financial covenants oriented towards ensuring that the funds' remaining callable capital is sufficient to repay the loan, and larger commitments (typically provided to larger private equity funds) are often secured by an assignment of the general partner's right to call capital from the fund's limited partner investors.
Investor Dependent - Accelerator (Early-Stage) and Growth (Mid-Stage and Later-Stage)
Investor Dependent loans are comprised of two portfolio segments: (i) Accelerator, which is comprised of Early-Stage clients, and (ii) Growth, which is comprised of Mid-Stage and Later-Stage clients. Our Investor Dependent loans are made primarily to technology and life science/healthcare companies. Investor Dependent loans typically have modest or negative cash flows and no established record of profitable operations. Repayment of these loans may be dependent upon receipt by borrowers of additional equity financing from venture capital firms or others, or in some cases, a successful sale to a third party or an IPO. Venture capital firms may provide financing selectively, at reduced amounts, or on less favorable terms, which may have an adverse effect on our borrowers' ability to repay their loans to us. When repayment is dependent upon the next round of venture investment and there is an indication that further investment is unlikely or will not occur, it is often likely that the company would need to be sold to repay the debt in full. If reasonable efforts have not yielded a likely buyer willing to repay all debt at the close of the sale or on commercially viable terms, the account will most likely be deemed to be non-performing or charged-off.
Our Accelerator, or Early-Stage, portfolio segment consists of pre-revenue, development-stage companies and companies that are in the early phases of commercialization, with revenues of up to $5 million. Our Growth portfolio segment is disaggregated into two risk-based segments for disclosure purposes; Mid-Stage and Later-Stage. Mid-Stage companies consist of growth-stage enterprises with revenues of between $5 million and $15 million or, in the case of biotechnology, pre-revenue clinical-stage companies. Later-Stage consists of companies with revenues of $15 million or more. This disaggregation of our Investor Dependent loans is based in part on the materially different historical loss rate we have experienced with each risk-based segment, with historical loss rates being the highest in the Early-Stage portfolio segment, and declining in the Mid-Stage and Later-Stage risk-based segments, as a function of the relatively higher enterprise value and asset coverage that is created as a company progresses through the various stages of development.
Cash Flow and Balance Sheet Dependent
Our Cash Flow and Balance Sheet Dependent portfolio segment is disaggregated into Cash Flow Dependent and Balance Sheet Dependent loans. Additionally, our Cash Flow Dependent loans are disaggregated into two risk-based segments for disclosure purposes: (i) Sponsor Led Buyout and (ii) Other. Our Cash Flow Dependent loans are made primarily to technology and life science/healthcare companies and require the borrower to maintain cash flow from operations that is sufficient to service all debt. Borrowers must demonstrate normalized cash flow in excess of all fixed charges associated with operating the business. Sponsor Led Buyout loans are typically used to assist a select group of experienced private equity sponsors with the acquisition of businesses, are larger in size, and repayment is generally dependent upon the cash flows of the acquired company. The acquired companies are typically established, later-stage businesses of scale and characterized by reasonable levels of leverage with loan structures that include meaningful financial covenants. The sponsor's equity contribution is often 50 percent or more of the acquisition price.
Balance Sheet Dependent loans are made primarily to technology and life science/healthcare companies, which include asset-based loans, and are structured to require constant current asset coverage (i.e., cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable and, to a much lesser extent, inventory) in an amount that exceeds the outstanding debt. These loans are generally made to companies in our Growth and Corporate Finance practices. The repayment of these arrangements
is dependent on the financial condition, and payment ability, of third parties with whom our clients do business. As a result of the adoption of CECL and in connection with the revised approach to portfolio disaggregation discussed above, certain loans that were previously considered to be Balance Sheet Dependent have been reclassified as Investor Dependent - Later-Stage.
Private Bank
Our Private Bank clients are primarily private equity/venture capital professionals and executives in the innovation companies they support. We offer a customized suite of private banking services, including mortgages, home equity lines of credit, restricted and private stock loans, capital call lines of credit, lines of credit against liquid assets and other secured and unsecured lending products, as well as cash and wealth management services. In addition, we provide owner occupied commercial mortgages to Private Bank clients and real estate secured loans to eligible employees through our EHOP.
Premium Wine and Other
Our Premium Wine and Other portfolio segment consists of two risk-based segments for disclosure purposes: (i) Premium Wine and (ii) Other. Our Premium Wine clients primarily consist of premium wine producers, vineyards and wine industry or hospitality related businesses across the Western United States, primarily in California's Napa Valley, Sonoma County and Central Coast regions, as well as the Pacific Northwest. Our Other risk-based segment primarily includes our community development loans made as part of our responsibilities under the Community Reinvestment Act.
SBA Loans
SBA loans are included across all of our six portfolio segments and are separately disclosed as a single risk-based segment. We participated in the SBA's Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") to support small businesses across the United States. Under this program, the SBA provides a guarantee to banks making unsecured term loans of up to $10 million for qualified initial borrowers, and up to $2 million for second-time borrowers, as provided by the CARES Act, the Economic Aid Act, and related regulations and guidance. The ability to disburse loans under the PPP was extended to March 31, 2021 after the enactment of the Economic Aid Act and we have also begun accepting forgiveness applications from clients, whereby clients apply for loans to be forgiven (paid off) by the SBA. Loans funded under this program are primarily made to clients in the technology, life science/healthcare, premium wine and energy resource industries. While the recipients were located across the United States, more than half were made to clients that applied from the western United States. 
We maintain a systematic process for the evaluation of individual loans and portfolio segments for inherent risk of estimated credit losses for loans. At the time of approval, each loan in our portfolio is assigned a credit risk rating. Credit risk ratings are assigned on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing loans with a low risk of nonpayment, 9 representing loans with the highest risk of nonpayment and 10 representing loans which have been charged-off. The credit risk ratings for each loan are monitored and updated on an ongoing basis. This credit risk rating process includes, but is not limited to, consideration of such factors as payment status, the financial condition and operating performance of the borrower, borrower compliance with loan covenants, underlying collateral values and performance trends, the degree of access to additional capital, the presence of credit enhancements such as third party guarantees (where applicable), the degree to which the borrower is sensitive to external factors and the depth and experience of the borrower's management team. Our policies require a committee of senior management to review, at least quarterly, credit relationships with a credit risk rating of 5 through 9 that exceed specific dollar values.
Expected Credit Loss Measurement
The methodology for estimating the amount of ECL reported in the allowance for credit losses is the sum of two main components: (1) ECL assessed on a collective basis for pools of loans that share similar risk characteristics which includes a qualitative adjustment based on management’s assessment of the risks that may lead to a future loan loss experience different from our historical loan loss experience and (2) ECL assessed for individual loans that do not share similar risk characteristics with other loans. We do not estimate ECL on AIR on loans as AIR is reversed or written off when the full collection of the AIR related to a loan becomes doubtful, which is when loans are placed on nonaccrual status. AIR on loans totaled $126.4 million at December 31, 2020 and $119.1 million at December 31, 2019 and is excluded from the amortized cost disclosures in Note 9—“Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans and Unfunded Credit Commitments”, as it is included and reported separately within "Accrued interest receivable and other assets" in our consolidated balance sheets.
While the evaluation process of our allowance for credit losses on loans uses historical and other objective information, the classification of loans and the estimate of the allowance for credit losses for loans rely on the judgment and experience of
our management. A committee comprised of senior management evaluates the appropriateness of the allowance for credit losses for loans, which includes review of loan portfolio segmentation, quantitative models, internal and external data inputs, economic forecasts, credit risk ratings and qualitative adjustments.
Loans That Share Similar Risk Characteristics with Other Loans
We derive an estimated ECL assumption from a non-discounted cash flow approach based on our portfolio segments discussed above. This approach incorporates a calculation of three predictive metrics: (1) probability of default ("PD"), (2) loss given default ("LGD") and (3) exposure at default ("EAD"), over the estimated life of the exposure. PD and LGD assumptions are developed based on quantitative models and inherent risk of credit loss, both of which involve significant judgment. Renewals and extensions within our control are not considered in the estimated contractual term of a loan. However, we include potential extensions if management has a reasonable expectation that we will execute a TDR with the borrower. The quantitative models are based on historical credit loss experience, adjusted for probability-weighted economic scenarios. These scenarios are used to support a reasonable and supportable forecast period of three years for all portfolio segments. To the extent the remaining contractual lives of loans in the portfolio extend beyond this three-year period, we revert to historical averages using an autoregressive method of mean reversion that will continue to gradually trend towards the mean historical loss over the remaining contractual lives of loans, adjusted for prepayments. The macroeconomic scenarios are reviewed on a quarterly basis.    
We also apply a qualitative factor adjustment to the results obtained through our quantitative ECL models to consider model imprecision, emerging risk assessments, trends and other subjective factors that may not be adequately represented in quantitative ECL models. These adjustments to historical loss information are for asset specific risk characteristics, and also reflect our assessment of the extent that current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts differ from conditions that existed during the period over which historical information was evaluated. These adjustments are aggregated to become our qualitative allocation. Based on our qualitative assessment estimate of changing risks in the lending environment, the qualitative allocation may vary significantly from period to period and may include, but is not limited to, consideration of the following factors:
•Changes in lending policies and procedures, including changes in underwriting standards and collection, charge-off, and recovery practices not considered elsewhere in estimating credit losses;
•Changes in international, national, regional, and local economic and business conditions and developments that affect the collectability of the portfolio, including the condition of various market segments;
•Changes in the nature and volume of the portfolio and in the terms of loans;
•Changes in the experience, ability and depth of lending management and other relevant staff;
•Changes in the volume and severity of past due loans, the volume of nonaccrual loans and the volume and severity of adversely classified or graded loans;
•Changes in the quality of our loan review system;
•Changes in the value of underlying collateral for collateral-dependent loans;
•The existence and effect of any concentrations of credit, and changes in the level of such concentrations;
•The effect of other external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated credit losses in our existing portfolio; and
•The effect of limitations of available data, model imprecision and recent macro-economic factors that may not be reflected in the forecast information.
Loans That Do Not Share Similar Risk Characteristics
We monitor our loan pools to ensure all assets therein continue to share similar risk characteristics with other financial assets inside the pool. Changes in credit risk, borrower circumstances or the recognition of write-offs may indicate that a loan's risk profile has changed, and the asset should be removed from its current pool. For a loan that does not share risk characteristics with other loans, expected credit loss is measured based on the net realizable value, that is, the difference between the discounted value of the expected future cash flows and the amortized cost basis of the loan. When a loan is collateral-dependent and the repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral, the ECL is measured as the difference between the amortized cost basis of the loan and the fair value of the collateral. The fair value of the collateral will be determined by the most recent appraisal, as adjusted to reflect a reasonable marketing period for the sale of the asset(s) and an estimate of reasonable selling expenses. Collateral-dependent loans will have independent appraisals completed and accepted at least annually.
Allowance for Credit Losses: Unfunded Credit Commitments
We maintain a separate allowance for credit losses for unfunded credit commitments which is included in other liabilities and the related ECL in our provision for credit losses. We estimate the amount of expected losses by using historical trends to calculate a probability of an unfunded credit commitment being funded and derive historical lifetime expected loss factors for each portfolio segment similar to our funded loan ECL. The collectively assessed ECL for unfunded credit commitments also includes the same qualitative allocations applied for our funded loan ECL. For unfunded credit commitments related to loans that do not share similar risk characteristics with other loans, where applicable, a separate estimate of ECL will be included in our total allowance for credit losses on unfunded credit commitments. Loan commitments that are determined to be unconditionally cancellable by the Company do not require an allowance for credit losses on unfunded credit commitments.
Uncollectible Loans and Write-offs
Our charge-off policy applies to all loans, regardless of portfolio segment. Commercial loans are considered for a full or partial charge-off in the event that principal or interest is over 180 days past due and the loan lacks sufficient collateral and it is not in the process of collection. Consumer loans are considered for a full or partial charge-off in the event that principal or interest is over 120 days past due and the loan lacks sufficient collateral and it is not in the process of collection. We also consider writing off loans in the event of any of the following circumstances: 1) the loan, or a portion of the loan is deemed uncollectible due to: a) the borrower's inability to make recurring payments, b) material changes in the borrower's financial condition, or c) the expected sale of all or a portion of the borrower's business is insufficient to repay the loan in full, or 2) the loan has been identified for charge-off by regulatory authorities.
Troubled Debt Restructurings
A TDR arises from the modification of a loan where we have granted a concession to the borrower related to the borrower's financial difficulties that we would not have otherwise considered for economic or legal reasons. These concessions may include: (1) deferral of payment for more than an insignificant period of time that does not include sufficient offsetting borrower concessions; (2) interest rate reductions; (3) extension of the maturity date outside of ordinary course extension; (4) principal forgiveness; and/or (5) reduction of accrued interest.
We use the factors in ASC 310-40, Receivables, Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors, in analyzing when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, and when we have granted a concession, both of which must be present for a restructuring to meet the criteria of a TDR. If we determine that a TDR exists, we measure impairment based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, except that as a practical expedient, we may also measure impairment based on a loan's observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral less selling costs if the loan is a collateral-dependent loan.
In April 2020, we implemented three loan payment deferral programs targeted to assist borrowers who were the most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. These programs included relief for venture-backed, private bank and wine borrowers who met certain criteria. For loans modified under these programs, in accordance with the provisions of Section 4013 of the CARES Act, we elected to not apply troubled debt restructuring classifications to borrowers who were current as of December 31, 2019. In addition, for loans that did not meet the CARES Act criteria, we applied the guidance in an interagency statement issued by bank regulatory agencies. Using this guidance, we may find that borrowers are not experiencing financial difficulty that may otherwise result in a TDR classification, in accordance with ASC Subtopic 310-40, if loan modifications are performed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, provide short-term loan payment deferrals (e.g. six months in duration) and are granted to borrowers who were current as of the implementation date of the loan modification program. We evaluated all loans modified under these programs against the CARES Act and interagency guidance, as applicable, and determined the loan modifications would not be considered TDRs. We did not defer interest income recognition during periods of payment deferral, nor did any qualifying modification trigger nonaccrual status.
Nonaccrual Loans
Loans are generally placed on nonaccrual status when they become 90 days past due as to principal or interest payments (unless the principal and interest are well secured and in the process of collection); or when we have determined, based upon currently known information, that the timely collection of principal or interest is not probable.
When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, the accrued interest and fees are reversed against interest income and the loan is accounted for using the cost recovery method thereafter until qualifying for return to accrual status. For a loan to be returned to accrual status, all delinquent principal and interest must become current in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement and future collection of remaining principal and interest must be deemed probable. We apply a cost recovery
method in which all cash received is applied to the loan principal until it has been collected. Under this approach, interest income is recognized after total cash flows received exceed the recorded investment at the date of initial nonaccrual. All of our nonaccrual loans have credit risk ratings of 8 or 9 and are classified under the nonperforming category.
Premises and Equipment
Premises and equipment are reported at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or the terms of the related leases, whichever is shorter. The maximum estimated useful lives by asset classification are as follows:
Leasehold improvements Lesser of lease term or asset life
Furniture and equipment7 years
Computer software
 3-7 years
Computer hardware
 3-5 years
We capitalize the costs of computer software developed or obtained for internal use, including costs related to developed software, purchased software licenses and certain implementation costs.
For property and equipment that is retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and the resulting gain or loss is included in noninterest expense in consolidated net income.
Lease Obligations
We have entered into leases for real estate and various equipment utilized for the business. At the inception of the lease, each lease is evaluated to determine whether the lease will be accounted for as an operating or finance lease. We had no finance lease obligations at December 31, 2020 and 2019. We have made an accounting policy election not to recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities that arise from short-term leases for any class of underlying asset. In addition to excluding short-term leases, we have implemented an accounting policy in which non-lease components are not separated from lease components in the measurement of right-of-use ("ROU") asset and lease liabilities for all lease contracts.
ROU assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at the commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. We use the implicit rate when readily determinable. The operating lease ROU asset also includes any lease payments made and excludes lease incentives. Our lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
The Company reviews ROU assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. ROU assets are reviewed for recoverability at the lowest level in which there are identifiable cash flows (“asset group”). The carrying amount of an asset group is not considered recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition. If the asset group is determined not to be recoverable, then an impairment charge is recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount of the store asset group exceeds its fair value. The resulting impairment charge, if any, is allocated to the underlying assets on a pro rata basis using their relative carrying amounts.
Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. Acquired assets, including separately identifiable intangible assets, and assumed liabilities are recorded at their acquisition-date estimated fair values. The excess of the cost of acquisition over these fair values is recognized as goodwill. During the measurement period, which cannot exceed one year from the acquisition date, changes to estimated fair values are recognized as an adjustment to goodwill. Certain transaction costs are expensed as incurred.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill is not amortized and is subject, at a minimum, to an annual impairment assessment. A quantitative assessment will be completed if we have not recently completed a fair value assessment of the associated reporting unit and compared the assessed fair value of that reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. Should we be required to calculate the fair value of the entity, we would generally apply a discounted cash flow analysis that uses forecasted
performance estimates, and a discount rate leveraging a reporting unit specific capital asset pricing model, which in turn uses assumptions related to market performance and various macroeconomic and reporting unit specific risks. If this quantitative assessment was recently completed and if we deem the estimate to be current and reliable, we will not perform a full quantitative assessment of the reporting unit’s fair value for that reporting period. Instead, we will qualitatively determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. As part of this qualitative analysis we consider macroeconomic factors that might impact the entity’s performance, entity-specific financial performance of the reporting unit, changes in management or strategy and other factors. We will evaluate goodwill for impairment more frequently if circumstances indicate that the fair value of our reporting units is less than their carrying value, including goodwill.
Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and all intangible assets are subject to impairment if events or circumstances indicate that the fair value is less than the carrying amount.
Fair Value Measurements
Our available-for-sale securities, derivative instruments and certain non-marketable and other equity securities are financial instruments recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. We make estimates regarding valuation of assets and liabilities measured at fair value in preparing our consolidated financial statements.
Fair Value Measurement-Definition and Hierarchy
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. There is a three-level hierarchy for disclosure of assets and liabilities recorded at fair value. The classification of assets and liabilities within the hierarchy is based on whether the inputs to the valuation methodology used for measurement are observable or unobservable and on the significance of those inputs in the fair value measurement. Observable inputs reflect market-derived or market-based information obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our estimates about market data and views of market participants. The three levels for measuring fair value are based on the reliability of inputs and are as follows:
Level 1
Fair value measurements based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these instruments does not entail a significant degree of judgment. Assets utilizing Level 1 inputs include U.S. Treasury securities, foreign government debt securities, exchange-traded equity securities and certain marketable securities accounted for under fair value accounting.
Level 2
Fair value measurements based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, directly or indirectly. Valuations for the available-for-sale securities are provided by independent pricing service providers who have experience in valuing these securities and are compared to the average of quoted market prices obtained from independent brokers. We perform a monthly analysis on the values received from third parties so that the prices represent a reasonable estimate of the fair value. The procedures include, but are not limited to, initial and ongoing review of third-party pricing methodologies, review of pricing trends and monitoring of trading volumes. Additional corroboration, such as obtaining a non-binding price from a broker, may be obtained depending on the frequency of trades of the security and the level of liquidity or depth of the market. Prices received from independent brokers represent a reasonable estimate of the fair value and are validated through the use of observable market inputs including comparable trades, yield curve, spreads and, when available, market indices. If we determine that there is a more appropriate fair value based upon the available market data, the price received from the third party is adjusted accordingly. Below is a summary of the significant inputs used for each class of Level 2 assets and liabilities:
U.S. agency debentures: Fair value measurements of U.S. agency debentures are based on the characteristics specific to bonds held, such as issuer name, issuance date, coupon rate, maturity date and any applicable issuer call option features. Valuations are based on market spreads relative to similar term benchmark market interest rates, generally U.S. Treasury securities.
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities: Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities are pools of individual conventional mortgage loans underwritten to U.S. agency standards with similar coupon rates, tenor, and other attributes such as geographic location, loan size and origination vintage. Fair value measurements of these securities are
based on observable price adjustments relative to benchmark market interest rates taking into consideration estimated loan prepayment speeds.
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations: Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations are structured into classes or tranches with defined cash flow characteristics and are collateralized by U.S. agency-issued mortgage pass-through securities. Fair value measurements of these securities incorporate similar characteristics of mortgage pass-through securities such as coupon rate, tenor, geographic location, loan size and origination vintage, in addition to incorporating the effect of estimated prepayment speeds on the cash flow structure of the class or tranche. These measurements incorporate observable market spreads over an estimated average life after considering the inputs listed above.
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities: Fair value measurements of these securities are based on spreads to benchmark market interest rates (usually U.S. Treasury rates or rates observable in the swaps market), prepayment speeds, loan default rate assumptions and loan loss severity assumptions on underlying loans.
Foreign exchange forward and option contract assets and liabilities: Fair value measurements of these assets and liabilities are priced based on spot and forward foreign currency rates and option volatility assumptions.
Interest rate derivative and interest rate swap assets and liabilities: Fair value measurements of interest rate derivatives and interest rate swaps are priced considering the coupon rate of the fixed leg of the contract and the variable coupon rate on the floating leg of the contract. Valuation is based on both spot and forward rates on the swap yield curve and the credit worthiness of the contract counterparty.
Other equity securities: Fair value measurements of equity securities of public companies are priced based on quoted market prices less a discount if the securities are subject to certain sales restrictions. Certain sales restriction discounts generally range from 10 percent to 20 percent depending on the duration of the sale restrictions which typically range from three to six months.
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio): Fair value measurements of equity warrant assets of publicly-traded portfolio companies are valued based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The model uses the price of publicly-traded companies (underlying stock price), stated strike prices, warrant expiration dates, the risk-free interest rate and market-observable option volatility assumptions.
Level 3
The fair value measurement is derived from valuation techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect our own estimates of assumptions we believe market participants would use in pricing the asset. The valuation techniques are consistent with the market approach, income approach and/or the cost approach used to measure fair value. Below is a summary of the valuation techniques used for each class of Level 3 assets:
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value: Fair value measurements are based on consideration of a range of factors including, but not limited to, the price at which the investment was acquired, the term and nature of the investment, local market conditions, values for comparable securities, and as it relates to the private company, the current and projected operating performance, exit strategies and financing transactions subsequent to the acquisition of the investment. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement include the information about each portfolio company, including actual and forecasted results, cash position, recent or planned transactions and market comparable companies.
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio): Fair value measurements of equity warrant assets of publicly-traded portfolio companies are valued based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The model uses the price of publicly-traded companies (underlying stock price), stated strike prices, warrant expiration dates, the risk-free interest rate and market-observable option volatility assumptions. Modeled asset values are further adjusted by applying a discount of up to 20 percent for certain warrants that have certain sales restrictions or other features that indicate a discount to fair value is warranted.
Equity warrant assets (private portfolio): Fair value measurements of equity warrant assets of private portfolio companies are priced based on a Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the asset value by using stated strike prices, option expiration dates, risk-free interest rates and option volatility assumptions. Option volatility assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model are based on public market indices whose members operate in similar industries as companies in our private company portfolio. Option expiration dates are modified to account for estimates to actual life relative to stated expiration. Overall model asset values are further adjusted for a general lack of liquidity due to the private nature of the associated underlying company. There is a direct correlation between changes in the volatility and
remaining life assumptions in isolation and the fair value measurement while there is an inverse correlation between changes in the liquidity discount assumption and the fair value measurement.

Fee-based Services Revenue Recognition
Refer to Note 16—“Noninterest Income” for our fee-based services revenue recognition policies for our contracts with customers.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Our federal, state and foreign income tax provisions are based upon taxes payable for the current year, current year changes in deferred taxes related to temporary differences between the tax basis and financial statement balances of assets and liabilities, and a reserve for uncertain tax positions. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in the consolidated financial statements at currently enacted income tax rates applicable to the period in which the deferred tax assets and liabilities are expected to be realized. As changes in tax laws or rates are enacted, deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted through the provision for income taxes. A valuation allowance is provided, when it is determined based upon available evidence, that it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. We file a consolidated federal income tax return, and consolidated, combined, or separate state income tax returns as appropriate. Our foreign incorporated subsidiaries file tax returns in the applicable foreign jurisdictions. We record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in other noninterest expense, a component of consolidated net income.
Share-Based Compensation
For all stock-based awards granted, stock-based compensation expense is amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, including consideration of vesting conditions and anticipated forfeitures. The fair value of stock options are measured using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and the fair value for restricted stock awards and restricted stock units are based on the quoted price of our common stock on the date of grant.
Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common stock shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common stock shares and potential common shares outstanding during the period. Potential common shares consist of stock options, ESPP shares and restricted stock units. Common stock equivalent shares are excluded from the computation if the effect is antidilutive.    
Derivative Financial Instruments
All derivative instruments are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in fair value of a derivative financial instrument depends on whether the derivative financial instrument is designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship and, if so, the nature of the hedging activity. Changes in fair value are recognized through earnings for derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, or that have not been designated in a hedging relationship.
Cash Flow Hedges
For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and recognized in earnings as the hedged item affects earnings. Derivative amounts affecting earnings are recognized consistent with the classification of the hedged item in the line item "loans" as part of interest income, a component of consolidated net income. We assess hedge effectiveness under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging ("ASC 815"), on a quarterly basis to ensure all hedges remain highly effective to ensure hedge accounting under ASC 815 can be applied. If the hedging relationship no longer exists or no longer qualifies as a hedge per ASC 815, any amounts remaining as gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified into earnings in the line item "loans" as part of interest income, a component of consolidated net income.
Equity Warrant Assets
In connection with negotiated credit facilities and certain other services, we may obtain equity warrant assets giving us the right to acquire stock in primarily private, venture-backed companies in the technology and life science/healthcare
industries. We hold these assets for prospective investment gains. We do not use them to hedge any economic risks nor do we use other derivative instruments to hedge economic risks stemming from equity warrant assets.
We account for equity warrant assets in certain private and public client companies as derivatives when they contain net settlement terms and other qualifying criteria under ASC 815. In general, equity warrant assets entitle us to buy a specific number of shares of stock at a specific price within a specific time period. Certain equity warrant assets contain contingent provisions, which adjust the underlying number of shares or purchase price upon the occurrence of certain future events. Substantially all of our warrant agreements contain net share settlement provisions, which permit us to receive at exercise a share count equal to the intrinsic value of the warrant divided by the share price (otherwise known as a “cashless” exercise). These equity warrant assets are recorded at fair value and are classified as derivative assets, a component of other assets, on our consolidated balance sheet at the time they are obtained.
The grant date fair values of equity warrant assets received in connection with the issuance of a credit facility are deemed to be loan fees and recognized as an adjustment of loan yield through loan interest income. Similar to other loan fees, the yield adjustment related to grant date fair value of warrants is recognized over the life of that credit facility.
Any changes in fair value from the grant date fair value of equity warrant assets will be recognized as increases or decreases to other assets on our balance sheet and as net gains or losses on equity warrant assets, in noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income. We value our equity warrant assets using a Black-Scholes option pricing model, which incorporates the following significant inputs:
•An underlying asset value, which is estimated based on current information available in valuation reports, including any information regarding subsequent rounds of funding or performance of a company.
•Stated strike price, which can be adjusted for certain warrants upon the occurrence of subsequent funding rounds or other future events.
•Price volatility or risk associated with possible changes in the warrant price. The volatility assumption is based on historical price volatility of publicly traded companies within indices similar in nature to the underlying client companies issuing the warrant. The actual volatility input is based on the mean and median volatility for an individual public company within an index for the past 16 quarters, from which an average volatility was derived.
•Actual data on terminations and exercises of our warrants are utilized as the basis for determining the expected remaining life of the warrants in each financial reporting period. Warrants may be exercised in the event of acquisitions, mergers or IPOs, and cancelled due to events such as bankruptcies, restructuring activities or additional financings. These events cause the expected remaining life assumption to be shorter than the contractual term of the warrants.
•The risk-free interest rate is derived from the Treasury yield curve and is calculated based on a weighted average of the risk-free interest rates that correspond closest to the expected remaining life of the warrant.
•Other adjustments, including a marketability discount, are estimated based on management's judgment about the general industry environment.
•Number of shares and contingencies associated with obtaining warrant positions such as the funding of associated loans.
When a company in the portfolio completes an IPO, or is acquired, we may exercise these equity warrant assets for shares or cash. In the event of an exercise for common stock shares, the basis or value in the common stock shares is reclassified from other assets to investment securities on the balance sheet on the latter of the exercise date or corporate action date. The common stock of public companies are classified as non-marketable and other equity securities. Changes in the fair value of the common stock shares is recorded as gains or losses on investments securities, in noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income. The common stock of private companies are classified as non-marketable and other equity securities. We account for these securities under the methodology under ASU 2016-01, other investments without a readily determinable fair value. The carrying value in the private common stock without a readily determinable fair value is based on the price at which the investment was acquired plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments and are recorded as gains or losses on investments securities, in noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income.
Foreign Exchange Forwards and Foreign Currency Option Contracts
We enter into foreign exchange forward contracts and foreign currency option contracts with clients involved in international activities, either as the purchaser or seller, depending upon the clients' need. We also enter into an opposite-
way forward or option contract with a correspondent bank to economically hedge client contracts to mitigate the fair value risk to us from fluctuations in currency rates. Settlement, credit and operational risks remain. We also enter into forward contracts with correspondent banks to economically hedge currency exposure risk related to certain foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. These contracts are not designated as hedging instruments and are recorded at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets. The contracts generally have terms of one year or less, although we may have contracts extending for up to five years. Generally, we have not experienced nonperformance on these contracts, have not incurred credit losses and anticipate performance by all counterparties to such agreements. Changes in the fair value of these contracts are recognized in consolidated net income under other noninterest income, a component of noninterest income. Period-end gross positive fair values are recorded in other assets and gross negative fair values are recorded in other liabilities.
Interest Rate Contracts
We sell interest rate contracts to clients who wish to mitigate their interest rate exposure. We economically reduce the interest rate risk from this business by entering into opposite-way contracts with correspondent banks. We do not designate any of these contracts (which are derivative instruments) as qualifying for hedge accounting. Contracts in an asset position are included in other assets and contracts in a liability position are included in other liabilities. The net change in the fair value of these derivatives is recorded through other noninterest income, in noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income.
Adoption of New Accounting Standards
Financial Instruments - Credit Losses
In June 2016, the FASB issued a new Accounting Standard Update (ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments- Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments), which amends the incurred loss impairment methodology in current GAAP with a methodology that reflects a current expected credit loss measurement to estimate the allowance for credit losses over the contractual life of the financial assets (including loans, unfunded credit commitments and HTM securities) and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. While the CECL model does not apply to available-for-sale debt securities, ASU 2016-13 does require entities to record an allowance for credit losses when recognizing credit losses for available-for-sale securities, rather than reduce the amortized cost of the securities by direct write-offs, which allows for reversal of credit impairments in future periods based on improvements in credit. We adopted the guidance on January 1, 2020, using a modified retrospective approach. We recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying CECL as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings, net of tax. The comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods.
We completed a comprehensive implementation process that included loss forecasting model development, evaluation of technical accounting topics, updates to our allowance for credit loss accounting policies, reporting processes and related internal controls, overall operational readiness for our adoption of CECL as well as parallel runs for CECL alongside our previous allowance process. We provided quarterly updates to senior management and to the Audit and Credit Committees of the Board of Directors throughout the implementation process. For additional details regarding our allowance for credit losses methodology, see Note 9—“Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans and Unfunded Credit Commitments.”
Upon the adoption of the standard on January 1, 2020, and based on our loan, unfunded credit commitment, and HTM security portfolios composition at December 31, 2019, and the then current economic environment, we recorded a $48.5 million increase to the allowance for credit losses. After adjusting for deferred taxes, a $35.0 million decrease was recorded to retained earnings through a cumulative-effect adjustment.
Under the prior guidance, our loan portfolio and credit quality disclosures were disaggregated based on client market segments. Upon adoption of CECL, our technology (software/internet and hardware) and life science/healthcare market segments are disclosed by disaggregated risk-based segments determined by portfolio segments that align with their respective underwriting methodology and the level at which credit risk is now monitored by management. The primary underwriting method for our technology and life science/healthcare portfolios are classified as Investor Dependent - Accelerator (Early-Stage) and Growth (Mid-Stage and Later-Stage) and Cash Flow (Sponsor Led Buyout and Other) and Balance Sheet Dependent, as noted above, and prior period amounts were reclassified for comparability. There are no other material changes to our current market segments.
Summary of Allowance for Loan Losses, Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments and Impaired Loans Superseded by Recently Adopted Accounting Standards (Applicable to the Years Ending December 31, 2019 and 2018)
Allowance for Loan Losses
The allowance for loan losses considers credit risk and is established through a provision for loan losses charged to expense. Our allowance for loan losses is established for estimated loan losses that are probable and incurred but not yet realized. Our evaluation process is designed to determine that the allowance for loan losses is appropriate at the balance sheet date. The process of estimating loan losses is inherently imprecise.
We maintain a systematic process for the evaluation of individual loans and pools of loans for inherent risk of loan losses. At the time of approval, each loan in our portfolio is assigned a Credit Risk Rating and industry niche. Credit Risk Ratings are assigned on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing loans with a low risk of nonpayment, 9 representing loans with the highest risk of nonpayment, and 10 representing loans which have been charged-off. The credit risk ratings for each loan are monitored and updated on an ongoing basis. This Credit Risk Rating process includes, but is not limited to, consideration of such factors as payment status, the financial condition and operating performance of the borrower, borrower compliance with loan covenants, underlying collateral values and performance trends, the degree of access to additional capital, the presence of credit enhancements such as third party guarantees (where applicable), the degree to which the borrower is sensitive to external factors, the depth and experience of the borrower's management team, potential loan concentrations, and general economic conditions. Our policies require a committee of senior management to review, at least quarterly, credit relationships with a credit risk rating of 5 through 9 that exceed specific dollar values. Our review process evaluates the appropriateness of the credit risk rating and allocation of the allowance for loan losses, as well as other account management functions. The allowance for loan losses is determined based on a qualitative analysis and a formula allocation for similar risk-rated loans categorized by portfolio segment, and individually for impaired loans. The formula allocation provides the average loan loss experience for each portfolio segment, which considers our quarterly historical loss experience since the year 2000, both by risk-rating category and client industry sector. The resulting loan loss factors for each risk-rating category and client industry sector are ultimately applied to the respective period-end client loan balances for each corresponding risk-rating category and client industry sector to provide an estimation of the allowance for loan losses. The probable loan loss experience for any one year period of time is reasonably expected to be greater or less than the average as determined by the loss factors. As such, management applies a qualitative allocation to the results of the aforementioned model to ascertain the total allowance for loan losses. This qualitative allocation is based on management's assessment of the risks that may lead to a loan loss experience that is different from our historical loan loss experience. Based on management's prediction or estimate of changing risks in the lending environment, the qualitative allocation may vary significantly from period to period and includes, but is not limited to, consideration of the following factors:
•Changes in lending policies and procedures, including underwriting standards and collections, and charge-off and recovery practices;
•Changes in national and local economic business conditions, including the market and economic condition of our clients' industry sectors;
•Changes in the nature of our loan portfolio;
•Changes in experience, ability, and depth of lending management and staff;
•Changes in the trend of the volume and severity of past due and classified loans;
•Changes in the trend of the volume of nonaccrual loans, troubled debt restructurings and other loan modifications;
•Reserve floor for portfolio segments that would not draw a minimum reserve based on the lack of historical loan loss experience;
•Reserve for large funded loan exposure;
•Reserve for performing impaired loan exposure; and
•Other factors as determined by management from time to time.
While the evaluation process of our allowance for loan losses uses historical and other objective information, the classification of loans and the establishment of the allowance for loan losses rely, to a great extent, on the judgment and experience of our management.
Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments
We record a liability for probable and estimable incurred losses associated with our unfunded credit commitments being funded and subsequently being charged off. Each quarter, every unfunded client credit commitment is allocated to a credit risk-rating in accordance with each client's credit risk rating and portfolio segment. We use the segment specific historical loan loss factors described above under "Allowance for Loan Losses" to calculate the loan loss experience if unfunded credit commitments are funded. Separately, we use historical trends to calculate a probability of an unfunded credit commitment being funded. We apply the loan funding probability factor to risk-factor adjusted unfunded credit commitments by credit risk-rating and portfolio segment to derive the allowance for unfunded credit commitments, similar to funded loans. The allowance for unfunded credit commitments also includes certain qualitative allocations as deemed appropriate by management. We include the allowance for unfunded credit commitments in other liabilities and the related provision in our provision for credit losses.
Impaired Loans
A loan is considered impaired when, based upon currently known information, it is deemed probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the agreement. On a quarterly basis, we review our loan portfolio for impairment. Within each class of loans, we review individual loans for impairment based on credit risk ratings. Loans risk-rated 5 through 7 are performing loans; however, we consider them as demonstrating higher risk, which requires more frequent review of individual exposures. Such loans translate to an internal rating of "Performing (Criticized)" and could be classified as a performing impaired loan.
For each loan identified as impaired, we measure the impairment based upon the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate. In limited circumstances, we may measure impairment based on the loan's observable market price or the fair value of the collateral less selling costs if the loan is collateral dependent. Impaired collateral-dependent loans will have independent appraisals completed and accepted at least annually. The fair value of the collateral will be determined by the most recent appraisal, as adjusted to reflect a reasonable marketing period for the sale of the asset(s) and an estimate of reasonable selling expenses.
If it is determined that the value of an impaired loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan, net of previous charge-offs and payments collected, we recognize impairment through the allowance for loan losses as determined by our analysis.
Reclassifications
Certain prior period amounts primarily related to the adoption of the ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments) ("ASU 2016-13" or "CECL") as mentioned above have been reclassified to conform to current period presentations.
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity and EPS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Equity and Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Stockholders' Equity and EPS Stockholders' Equity and EPS
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The following table summarizes the items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income into the Consolidated Statements of Income for 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)Income Statement Location202020192018
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income
Gains on investment securities, net
$(61,165)$3,905 $740 
Related tax expense (benefit)Income tax expense16,953 (1,087)(205)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on cash flow hedges included in net income
Net interest income
(49,928)5,358 — 
Related tax expense (benefit)Income tax expense13,692 (1,489)— 
Total reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income, net of tax$(80,448)$6,687 $535 
The table below summarizes the activity relating to net gains and losses on our cash flow hedges included in accumulated other comprehensive income for 2020, 2019 and 2018. Refer to Note 15—“Derivative Financial Instruments” for additional information regarding the termination of our cash flow hedges during the quarter ended March 31, 2020. Over the next 12 months, we expect that approximately $63.3 million in accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") at December 31, 2020, related to our cash flow hedges will be reclassified out of AOCI and recognized in net income.
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Balance, beginning of period, net of tax$(2,130)$— $— 
Net increase (decrease) in fair value, net of tax167,639 (5,999)— 
Net realized (gain) loss reclassified to net income, net of tax(36,236)3,869 — 
Balance, end of period, net of tax
$129,273 $(2,130)$— 
EPS
Basic EPS is the amount of earnings available to each share of common stock outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted EPS is the amount of earnings available to each share of common stock outstanding during the reporting period adjusted to include the effect of potentially dilutive common shares. Potentially dilutive common shares include incremental shares issuable for stock option and restricted stock unit awards outstanding under our 2006 Equity Incentive Plan and our ESPP. Potentially dilutive common shares are excluded from the computation of dilutive EPS in periods in which the effect would be antidilutive. The following is a reconciliation of basic EPS to diluted EPS for 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars and shares in thousands, except per share amounts)202020192018
Numerator:
Net income available to common stockholders$1,191,217 $1,136,856 $973,840 
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding—basic51,685 51,915 53,078 
Weighted average effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options and ESPP151 227 377 
Restricted stock units248 169 317 
Weighted average common shares outstanding—diluted
52,084 52,311 53,772 
Earnings per common share:
Basic$23.05 $21.90 $18.35 
Diluted22.87 21.73 18.11 
The following table summarizes the weighted average common shares excluded from the diluted EPS calculation due to the antidilutive effect for 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 Year ended December 31,
(Shares in thousands)202020192018
Stock options279 167 59 
Restricted stock units10 250 85 
Total289 417 144 
Stock Repurchase Program
On October 24, 2019, our Board of Directors authorized a stock repurchase program that enabled us to repurchase up to $350 million of our outstanding common stock. The program expired on October 29, 2020. Prior to the program's expiration and for the year ended December 31, 2020, we had repurchased 244,223 shares of our outstanding common stock for $60.0 million under the stock repurchase program.
Preferred Stock
On December 9, 2019, the Company issued depositary shares representing an ownership interest in 350,000 shares of Series A Preferred Stock with $0.001 par value and liquidation preference of $1,000 per share, or $25 per depositary share. All preferred shares were issued in the form of depositary shares, with each depositary share representing a 1/40th ownership interest in a share of the preferred stock. The Series A Preferred Stock has no stated maturity and is not subject to any sinking fund or other obligation of the Company. Dividends are approved by the Board of Directors and, if declared, are payable quarterly, in arrears, at a rate per annum equal to 5.25 percent. The Series A Preferred Stock is redeemable at the Company’s option, in whole or in part, on or after February 15, 2025. Prior to February 15, 2025, the Series A Preferred Stock is redeemable at the Company’s option, in whole and not in part, following any change in laws or regulations that would not allow the Company to treat the full liquidation value of the Series A Preferred Stock as Tier 1 capital for purposes of the capital adequacy guidelines of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System ("the Federal Reserve"). The redemption amount is computed at the per share liquidation preference plus any declared but unpaid dividends. Redemptions are subject to certain regulatory provisions, including approval of the Federal Reserve.
As of December 31, 2020, there were 350,000 shares issued and outstanding of Series A Preferred Shares, which had a carrying value of $340.1 million and liquidation preference of $350.0 million.
The following table summarizes our preferred stock at December 31, 2020:
SeriesDescriptionAmount outstanding (in millions)Carrying value
(in millions)		Shares issued and outstandingPar ValueOwnership interest per depositary shareLiquidation preference per depositary share2020 dividends paid per depositary share
Series A5.250% Fixed-Rate Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock$350 $340.1 350,000$0.001 1/40th$25 $1.23 
On February 2, 2021, the Company issued Series B Preferred Stock. Refer to Note 28—“Subsequent Events” for additional information.
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Share-Based Compensation Share-Based Compensation
Share-based compensation expense was recorded net of estimated forfeitures for 2020, 2019 and 2018, such that expense was recorded only for those share-based awards that are expected to vest. In 2020, 2019 and 2018, we recorded share-based compensation and related benefits as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Share-based compensation expense$83,986 $66,815 $45,675 
Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation expense
(20,426)(16,152)(10,997)
Capitalized compensation costs1,383 1,517 1,466 
Equity Incentive Plan
Our 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2006 Incentive Plan”) was adopted in May 2006, and is amended from time to time. The 2006 Incentive Plan provides for the grant of various types of incentive awards, of which the following have been granted: (i) stock options; (ii) restricted stock awards; (iii) restricted stock units (subject to either time-and/or performance-based vesting); and (iv) other cash or stock settled equity awards. Eligible participants in the 2006 Incentive Plan include directors, employees and consultants.
Subject to the provisions of Section 16 of the 2006 Incentive Plan, the maximum aggregate number of shares that may be awarded and sold thereunder is 12,028,505.
Restricted stock awards/units are counted against the available-for-issuance limits of the 2006 Incentive Plan as two shares for every one share awarded. Further, if shares acquired under any such award are forfeited, repurchased by SVB Financial, used to satisfy the tax withholding obligations related to an award or otherwise canceled and would otherwise return to the 2006 Incentive Plan, two times the number of such shares will return to the 2006 Incentive Plan and will again become available for issuance.
Under the terms of the 2006 Incentive Plan and subject to certain exceptions: (i) restricted stock awards/units are subject to a minimum of at least three years of annual vesting, and (ii) performance-based restricted stock awards/units and stock options are subject to a minimum of at least one year of vesting. Generally in practice, restricted stock awards/units vest annually over four years and require continued employment or other service through the vesting period. Performance-based restricted stock awards/units granted to executives generally vest upon meeting certain performance-based objectives over a three year period and, typically the passage of time, and require continued employment or other service through the vesting period. Stock options typically vest annually over four years, from the grant date based on continued employment or other service, and expire no later than seven years after the grant date.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
We maintain the 1999 ESPP under which participating employees may annually contribute up to 10 percent of their gross compensation (not to exceed $25,000) to purchase shares of our common stock at 85 percent of its fair market value at either the beginning or end of each six-month offering period, whichever price is less. To be eligible to participate in the ESPP, an employee must, among other requirements, be employed by the Company on both the date of offering and date of purchase, and be employed customarily for at least 20 hours per week and at least five months per calendar year. We issued 167,336 shares and received $30.2 million in cash under the ESPP in 2020. At December 31, 2020, a total of 1,170,472 shares of our common stock were still available for future issuance under the ESPP.
Unrecognized Compensation Expense
As of December 31, 2020, unrecognized share-based compensation expense was as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)Unrecognized 
Expense		Weighted Average Expected Recognition Period - in Years  
Stock options$13,854 2.42
Restricted stock awards/units119,764 2.59
Total unrecognized share-based compensation expense$133,618 
Valuation Assumptions
The fair values of share-based awards for employee stock options and employee stock purchases made under our ESPP were estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The fair values of restricted stock units were based on our closing stock price on the date of grant. The following weighted average assumptions and fair values were used for our employee stock options and restricted stock units:
Equity Incentive Plan Awards202020192018
Weighted average expected term of options - in years4.64.64.8
Weighted average expected volatility of the Company's underlying common stock
41.9 %35.5 %34.7 %
Risk-free interest rate0.37 2.26 2.82 
Expected dividend yield— — — 
Weighted average grant date fair value - stock options$66.44 $83.50 $105.81 
Weighted average grant date fair value - restricted stock units199.51 243.65 294.50 
The following weighted average assumptions and fair values were used for our ESPP:
ESPP202020192018
Expected term in years0.50.50.5
Weighted average expected volatility of the Company's underlying common stock51.9 %38.1 %32.2 %
Risk-free interest rate1.12 2.40 1.79 
Expected dividend yield— — — 
Weighted average grant date fair value$69.54 $52.90 $62.76 
The expected term is based on the implied term of the stock options using factors based on historical exercise behavior.
The expected volatilities are based on a blended rate consisting of our historic volatility and our expected volatility over a five-year term which is an indicator of expected volatility and future stock price trends. For 2020, 2019 and 2018, expected volatilities for the ESPP were equal to the historical volatility for the previous six-month periods. The expected risk-free interest rates were based on the yields of U.S. Treasury securities, as reported by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, with maturities equal to the expected terms of the employee stock options.
Share-Based Payment Award Activity
The table below provides stock option information related to the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan for the year ended December 31, 2020:
OptionsWeighted
Average
 Exercise Price 		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life - in Years  Aggregate Intrinsic Value of 
In-The-Money Options
Outstanding at December 31, 2019625,407 $169.33 
Granted124,091 187.59 
Exercised(173,536)106.42 
Forfeited(15,931)232.60 
Expired(1,030)71.11 
Outstanding at December 31, 2020559,001 191.29 4.01$109,865,324 
Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2020538,524 190.30 3.94106,375,308 
Exercisable at December 31, 2020276,191 157.07 2.4763,734,604 
The aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding options shown in the table above represents the pre-tax intrinsic value based on our closing stock price of $387.83 as of December 31, 2020. The following table summarizes information regarding stock options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2020:
Outstanding OptionsExercisable Options
Range of Exercise PricesSharesWeighted Average Remaining Contractual Life - in YearsWeighted Average Exercise PriceSharesWeighted Average Exercise Price
$101.14 - 105.84
87,538 2.31$105.15 87,538 $105.15 
105.85 - 126.18
42,249 0.33108.04 42,249 108.04 
126.19 - 173.94
47,407 1.36130.42 46,673 129.81 
173.95 - 181.63
64,974 3.33178.39 45,579 178.39 
181.64 - 195.34
116,375 6.33184.86 — — 
195.35 - 247.56
15,765 5.69230.24 3,777 227.23 
247.57 - 277.95
112,934 5.33250.43 15,367 250.43 
277.96- 306.22
68,705 4.33305.46 33,875 305.46 
306.23 - 315.88
790 6.84306.98 — — 
315.89 - 324.77
2,264 4.60324.77 1,133 324.77 
Total559,001 4.01191.29 276,191 157.07 
We expect to satisfy the exercise of stock options by issuing shares under the 2006 Incentive Plan. All future awards of stock options and restricted stock units will be issued from the 2006 Incentive Plan. At December 31, 2020, 2,682,494 shares were available for future issuance.
The table below provides information for restricted stock units under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan for the year ended December 31, 2020:
Shares    Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested at December 31, 2019847,972 $236.54 
Granted460,671 199.51 
Vested(261,302)209.30 
Forfeited(52,292)225.66 
Nonvested at December 31, 2020995,049 227.12 
The following table summarizes information regarding stock option and restricted stock unit activity during 2020, 2019 and 2018:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised$25,380 $23,088 $40,681 
Total grant date fair value of stock options vested5,868 5,735 5,823 
Total intrinsic value of restricted stock vested55,782 56,101 63,917 
Total grant date fair value of restricted stock vested47,237 35,191 28,813 
v3.20.4
Variable Interest Entities
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Investments In Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]  
Variable Interest Entities Variable Interest Entities
Our involvement with VIEs includes our investments in venture capital and private equity funds, debt funds, private and public portfolio companies and our investments in qualified affordable housing projects.
The following table presents the carrying amounts and classification of significant variable interests in consolidated and unconsolidated VIEs as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Consolidated VIEsUnconsolidated VIEsMaximum Exposure to Loss in Unconsolidated VIEs
December 31, 2020:
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$14,859 $— $— 
Non-marketable and other equity securities (1)422,049 858,617 858,617 
Accrued interest receivable and other assets937 — — 
Total assets$437,845 $858,617 $858,617 
Liabilities:
Other liabilities (1)1,410 370,208 — 
Total liabilities$1,410 $370,208 $— 
December 31, 2019:
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$7,629 $— $— 
Non-marketable and other equity securities (1)270,057 689,360 689,360 
Accrued interest receivable and other assets1,117 — — 
Total assets$278,803 $689,360 $689,360 
Liabilities:
Other liabilities (1)2,854 302,031 — 
Total liabilities$2,854 $302,031 $— 
(1)Included in our unconsolidated non-marketable and other equity securities portfolio at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 are investments in qualified affordable housing projects of $616.2 million and $458.5 million, respectively, and related other liabilities consisting of unfunded commitments of $370.2 million and $302.0 million, respectively.

Non-marketable and other equity securities
Our non-marketable and other equity securities portfolio primarily represents investments in venture capital and private equity funds, SPD-SVB, debt funds, private and public portfolio companies, including public equity securities held as a result of equity warrant assets exercised and investments in qualified affordable housing projects. A majority of these investments are investments held by SVB Financial in third-party funds in which we do not have controlling or significant variable interests. These investments represent our unconsolidated VIEs in the table above. Our non-marketable and other equity securities portfolio also includes investments from SVB Capital. SVB Capital is the funds management business of SVB Financial Group, which focuses primarily on venture capital investments. The SVB Capital family of funds is comprised of direct venture funds that invest in companies and funds of funds that invest in other venture capital funds. We have a controlling and significant variable interest in three of these SVB Capital funds and consolidate these funds for financial reporting purposes.
All investments are generally non-redeemable and distributions are expected to be received through the liquidation of the underlying investments throughout the life of the investment fund. Investments may only be sold or transferred subject to the notice and approval provisions of the underlying investment agreement. Subject to applicable regulatory requirements, including the Volcker Rule, we also make commitments to invest in venture capital and private equity funds. For additional details, see Note 21—“Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments.”
The Bank also has variable interests in low income housing tax credit funds, in connection with fulfilling its responsibilities under the Community Reinvestment Act ("CRA"), that are designed to generate a return primarily through the realization of federal tax credits. These investments are typically limited partnerships in which the general partner, other than the Bank, holds the power over significant activities of the VIE; therefore, these investments are not consolidated. For additional information on our investments in qualified affordable housing projects see Note 8—“Investment Securities."
As of December 31, 2020, our exposure to loss with respect to the consolidated VIEs is limited to our net assets of $436.4 million and our exposure to loss for our unconsolidated VIEs is equal to our investment in these assets of $858.6 million.
v3.20.4
Reserves on Deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Bank Stock
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock and Federal Reserve Bank Stock [Abstract]  
Reserves on Deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Bank Stock Reserves on Deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Bank Stock
The Bank is required to maintain reserves against customer deposits by keeping balances with the Federal Reserve. The cash balances at the Federal Reserve are classified as cash and cash equivalents. Additionally, as a member of the FHLB and FRB, we are required to hold shares of FHLB and FRB stock under the Bank's borrowing agreement. FHLB and FRB stock are recorded at cost as a component of other assets, and any cash dividends received are recorded as a component of other noninterest income.
The tables below provide information on the required reserve balances at the Federal Reserve, as well as shares held at the FHLB and FRB for the years ended and as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Average required reserve balances at FRB San Francisco$82,461 $315,784 
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
FHLB stock holdings$17,250 $17,250 
FRB stock holdings43,982 43,008 
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]  
Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents
The following table details our cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Cash and due from banks (1)$17,447,916 $6,492,443 
Securities purchased under agreements to resell (2)226,847 289,340 
Total cash and cash equivalents$17,674,763 $6,781,783 
(1)At December 31, 2020 and 2019, $13.7 billion and $3.7 billion, respectively, of our cash and due from banks was deposited at the FRB and was earning interest at the Federal Funds target rate, and interest-earning deposits in other financial institutions were $3.0 billion and $2.1 billion, respectively.
(2)At December 31, 2020 and 2019, securities purchased under agreements to resell were collateralized by U.S. Treasury securities and U.S. agency securities with aggregate fair values of $232 million and $295 million, respectively. None of these securities were sold or repledged as of December 31, 2020 and 2019.

Additional information regarding our securities purchased under agreements to resell for 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Average securities purchased under agreements to resell$149,385 $166,205 
Maximum amount outstanding at any month-end during the year450,164 613,247 
v3.20.4
Investment Securities
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Investment Securities Investment Securities
Our investment securities portfolio consists of (i) an available-for-sale securities portfolio and a held-to-maturity securities portfolio, both of which represent interest-earning investment securities; and (ii) a non-marketable and other equity securities portfolio, which primarily represents investments managed as part of our funds management business as well as public equity securities held as a result of equity warrant assets exercised.
Available-for-Sale Securities
The major components of our AFS investment securities portfolio at 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
 December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized
Cost		Unrealized
Gains		Unrealized
Losses		Carrying
Value
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value:
U.S. Treasury securities$4,197,858 $271,977 $(107)$4,469,728 
U.S. agency debentures233,727 4,165 (585)237,307 
Foreign government debt securities24,491 1 — 24,492 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities13,271,482 232,850 (651)13,503,681 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate8,076,832 40,010 (10,278)8,106,564 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities4,440,506 133,527 (3,367)4,570,666 
Total available-for-sale securities$30,244,896 $682,530 $(14,988)$30,912,438 
 December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized
Cost		Unrealized
Gains		Unrealized
Losses		Carrying
Value
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value:
U.S. Treasury securities$6,815,874 $82,267 $(4,131)$6,894,010 
U.S. agency debentures100,000 — (453)99,547 
Foreign government debt securities9,037 1 — 9,038 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities4,109,372 39,438 (19)4,148,791 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate1,520,414 17,929 — 1,538,343 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities1,339,651 1,078 (15,539)1,325,190 
Total available-for-sale securities$13,894,348 $140,713 $(20,142)$14,014,919 
The following table summarizes sale activity of available-for-sale securities as recorded in the line item “Gains on investment securities, net," a component of noninterest income:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Sales proceeds$2,654,212 $2,189,087 $474,482 
Net realized gains and losses:
Gross realized gains61,165 1,250 127 
Gross realized losses— (5,155)(867)
Net realized losses$61,165 $(3,905)$(740)
The following tables summarize our AFS securities in an unrealized loss position for which an allowance for credit losses has not been recorded and summarized into categories of less than 12 months, or 12 months or longer as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
 December 31, 2020
 Less than 12 months12 months or longer (1)Total
(Dollars in thousands)Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses
Available-for-sale securities:
U.S. Treasury securities $59,929 $(107)$— $— $59,929 $(107)
U.S. agency debentures133,143 (585)— — 133,143 (585)
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities903,767 (651)— — 903,767 (651)
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate2,199,207 (10,278)— — 2,199,207 (10,278)
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities989,389 (3,367)— — 989,389 (3,367)
Total available-for-sale securities (1)$4,285,435 $(14,988)$— $— $4,285,435 $(14,988)
(1)As of December 31, 2020, we identified a total of 93 investments that were in unrealized loss positions with no investments in unrealized loss positions for a period of time greater than 12 months. Based on our analysis of the securities in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2020, the decline in value is unrelated to credit loss and is related to changes in market interest rates since purchase and therefore changes in value for securities are included in other comprehensive income. Market valuations and credit loss analyses on assets in the AFS securities portfolio are reviewed and monitored on a quarterly basis. As of December 31, 2020, we do not intend to sell any of our securities in an unrealized loss position prior to recovery of our amortized cost basis, and it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell any of our securities prior to recovery of our amortized cost basis. None of the investments in our AFS securities portfolio were past due as of December 31, 2020.
 December 31, 2019
 Less than 12 months12 months or longer (1)Total
(Dollars in thousands)Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses
Available-for-sale securities:
U.S. Treasury securities $971,572 $(3,996)$449,850 $(135)$1,421,422 $(4,131)
U.S. agency debentures99,547 (453)— — 99,547 (453)
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities4,014 (19)— — 4,014 (19)
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities1,027,232 (15,539)— — 1,027,232 (15,539)
Total available-for-sale securities (1)$2,102,365 $(20,007)$449,850 $(135)$2,552,215 $(20,142)
(1)As of December 31, 2019, we identified a total of 58 investments that were in unrealized loss positions, of which 12 investments totaling $0.4 billion with unrealized losses of $0.1 million have been in an unrealized loss position for a period of time greater than 12 months.
The following table summarizes the fixed income securities, carried at fair value, classified as AFS as of December 31, 2020 by the remaining contractual principal maturities. For U.S. Treasury securities, U.S. agency debentures and foreign government debt securities, the expected maturity is the actual contractual maturity of the notes. Expected maturities for mortgage-backed securities may differ significantly from their contractual maturities because mortgage borrowers have the right to prepay outstanding loan obligations with or without penalties. Mortgage-backed securities classified as AFS typically have original contractual maturities from 10 to 30 years whereas expected average lives of these securities tend to be significantly shorter and vary based upon structure and prepayments in lower interest rate environments.
 December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)TotalOne Year
or Less		After One
Year to
Five Years		After Five
Years to
Ten Years		After
Ten Years
U.S. Treasury securities$4,469,728 $10,092 $3,532,784 $926,852 $— 
U.S. agency debentures237,307 — — 237,307 — 
Foreign government debt securities24,492 24,492 — — — 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage-backed securities13,503,681 — — — 13,503,681 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate8,106,564 — — — 8,106,564 
Agency -issued commercial mortgage-backed securities4,570,666 — — 1,502,572 3,068,094 
Total$30,912,438 $34,584 $3,532,784 $2,666,731 $24,678,339 
Held-to-Maturity Securities
The components of our HTM investment securities portfolio at December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
 December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized
Cost		Unrealized
Gains		Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueAllowance for Credit Losses (2)
Held-to-maturity securities, at cost:
U.S. agency debentures (1)$402,265 $18,961 $— $421,226 $— 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities7,739,763 240,121 (2,211)7,977,673 — 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate1,735,451 23,227 (296)1,758,382 — 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—variable rate136,913 317 — 137,230 — 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities2,942,959 123,846 — 3,066,805 — 
Municipal bonds and notes 3,635,194 220,866 (505)3,855,555 392 
Total held-to-maturity securities$16,592,545 $627,338 $(3,012)$17,216,871 $392 
(1)    Consists of pools of Small Business Investment Company debentures issued and guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, an independent agency of the United States.
(2) Refer to Note 2—“Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” for more information on our credit loss methodology.
 December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized
Cost		Unrealized
Gains		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value
Held-to-maturity securities, at cost:
U.S. agency debentures (1)$518,728 $6,640 $(668)$524,700 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities6,992,009 142,209 (2,066)7,132,152 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate1,608,032 592 (8,502)1,600,122 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—variable rate178,611 94 (259)178,446 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities2,759,615 56,914 (4,508)2,812,021 
Municipal bonds and notes1,785,951 83,314 (1,434)1,867,831 
Total held-to-maturity securities$13,842,946 $289,763 $(17,437)$14,115,272 
(1)    Consists of pools of Small Business Investment Company debentures issued and guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, an independent agency of the United States.
Allowance for Credit Losses for HTM Securities
The following table summarizes the activity relating to our allowance for credit losses for HTM securities for 2020:
Year ended December 31, 2020:Beginning Balance December 31, 2019Day One Impact of Adopting ASC 326Provision for HTM SecuritiesEnding Balance December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)
Municipal bonds and notes
$— $174 $218 $392 
Total allowance for credit losses
$— $174 $218 $392 
Credit Quality Indicators
On a quarterly basis, management monitors the credit quality for HTM securities through the use of standard credit ratings. The following table summarizes our amortized cost of HTM securities aggregated by credit quality indicator at December 31, 2020:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020
Municipal bonds and notes:
Aaa$2,070,311 
Aa11,144,500 
Aa2420,383 
Total $3,635,194 
The following table summarizes the remaining contractual principal maturities on fixed income investment securities classified as HTM as of December 31, 2020. For U.S. agency debentures, the expected maturity is the actual contractual maturity of the notes. Expected maturities for mortgage-backed securities may differ significantly from their contractual maturities because mortgage borrowers have the right to prepay outstanding loan obligations with or without penalties. Mortgage-backed securities classified as HTM typically have original contractual maturities from 10 to 30 years whereas expected average lives of these securities tend to be significantly shorter and vary based upon structure and prepayments in lower interest rate environments.
 December 31, 2020
 TotalOne Year
or Less		After One Year to
Five Years		After Five Years to
Ten Years		After
Ten Years
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair Value
U.S. agency debentures$402,265 $421,226 $4,675 $4,705 $148,478 $153,756 $249,112 $262,765 $— $— 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities7,739,763 7,977,673 4,762 4,951 20,389 21,150 540,731 559,727 7,173,881 7,391,845 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - fixed rate1,735,451 1,758,382 — — 5,952 6,073 494,532 505,156 1,234,967 1,247,153 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - variable rate136,913 137,230 — — — — — — 136,913 137,230 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities2,942,959 3,066,805 — — — — 102,359 119,922 2,840,600 2,946,883 
Municipal bonds and notes3,635,194 3,855,555 46,292 46,641 144,347 150,940 669,281 721,554 2,775,274 2,936,420 
Total$16,592,545 $17,216,871 $55,729 $56,297 $319,166 $331,919 $2,056,015 $2,169,124 $14,161,635 $14,659,531 
Non-marketable and Other Equity Securities
The major components of our non-marketable and other equity securities portfolio at December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Non-marketable and other equity securities:
Non-marketable securities (fair value accounting):
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments (1)$88,937 $87,180 
Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments (2)184,886 178,217 
Other investments without a readily determinable fair value (3)60,975 55,255 
Other equity securities in public companies (fair value accounting) (4)280,804 59,200 
Non-marketable securities (equity method accounting) (5):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments362,192 215,367 
Debt funds5,444 7,271 
Other investments202,809 152,863 
Investments in qualified affordable housing projects, net (6)616,188 458,476 
Total non-marketable and other equity securities$1,802,235 $1,213,829 
(1)The following table shows the amounts of venture capital and private equity fund investments held by the following consolidated funds and our ownership percentage of each fund at December 31, 2020 and 2019 (fair value accounting):
 December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)AmountOwnership %AmountOwnership %
Strategic Investors Fund, LP$4,850 12.6 %$5,729 12.6 %
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP49,574 20.0 45,341 20.0 
Growth Partners, LP34,513 33.0 35,976 33.0 
CP I, LP— — 134 10.7 
Total consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments
$88,937 $87,180 

(2)The carrying value represents investments in 162 and 205 funds (primarily venture capital funds) at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, where our ownership interest is typically less than 5% of the voting interests of each such fund and in which we do not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the partnerships operating activities and financial policies. We carry our unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments at fair value based on the fund investments' net asset values per share as obtained from the general partners of the investments. For each fund investment, we adjust the net asset value per share for differences between our measurement date and the date of the fund investment’s net asset value by using the most recently available financial information from the investee general partner, for example September 30th for our December 31st consolidated financial statements, adjusted for any contributions paid, distributions received from the investment, and significant fund transactions or market events during the reporting period.
(3)These investments include direct equity investments in private companies. The carrying value is based on the price at which the investment was acquired plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments. We consider a range of factors when adjusting the fair value of these investments, including, but not limited to, the term and nature of the investment, local market conditions, values for comparable securities, current and projected operating performance, exit strategies, financing transactions subsequent to the acquisition of the investment and a discount for certain investments that have lock-up restrictions or other features that indicate a discount to fair value is warranted.
The following table shows the carrying amount of other investments without a readily determinable fair value at December 31, 2020, and the amounts recognized in earnings for the year ended December 31, 2020 and on a cumulative basis:
(Dollars in thousands)Year ended December 31, 2020Cumulative Adjustments
Measurement alternative:
Carrying value at December 31, 2020$60,975 
Carrying value adjustments:
Impairment
$(487)$(947)
Upward changes for observable prices
3,479 4,216 
Downward changes for observable prices
(2,799)(3,898)
(4)Investments classified as other equity securities (fair value accounting) represent shares held in public companies as a result of exercising public equity warrant assets, direct equity investments in public companies held by our consolidated funds, and exchange traded funds held by SVB Leerink. Changes in equity securities measured at fair value are recognized through net income.
(5)The following table shows the carrying value and our ownership percentage of each investment at December 31, 2020 and 2019 (equity method accounting):
 December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)AmountOwnership %AmountOwnership %
Venture capital and private equity fund investments:
Strategic Investors Fund II, LP$3,705 8.6 %$3,612 8.6 %
Strategic Investors Fund III, LP16,110 5.9 15,668 5.9 
Strategic Investors Fund IV, LP25,169 5.0 27,064 5.0 
Strategic Investors Fund V funds67,052 Various46,830 Various
CP II, LP (i)
7,887 5.1 5,907 5.1 
Other venture capital and private equity fund investments
242,269 Various116,286 Various
 Total venture capital and private equity fund investments$362,192 $215,367 
Debt funds:
Gold Hill Capital 2008, LP (ii)$3,941 15.5 %$5,525 15.5 %
Other debt funds1,503 Various1,746 Various
Total debt funds$5,444 $7,271 
Other investments:
SPD Silicon Valley Bank Co., Ltd.$115,232 50.0 %$74,190 50.0 %
Other investments87,577 Various78,673 Various
Total other investments$202,809 $152,863 
(i)Our ownership includes direct ownership interest of 1.3 percent and indirect ownership interest of 3.8 percent through our investments in Strategic Investors Fund II, LP.
(ii)Our ownership includes direct ownership interest of 11.5 percent in the fund and an indirect interest in the fund through our investment in Gold Hill Capital 2008, LLC of 4.0 percent.

(6)The following table presents the balances of our investments in qualified affordable housing projects and related unfunded commitments included as a component of "other liabilities" on our consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Investments in qualified affordable housing projects, net$616,188 $458,476 
Other liabilities 370,208 302,031 
The following table presents other information relating to our investments in qualified affordable housing projects for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Tax credits and other tax benefits recognized$56,969 $35,037 $24,047 
Amortization expense included in provision for income taxes (i)43,875 28,267 18,876 
(i)All investments are amortized using the proportional amortization method and amortization expense is included in the provision for income taxes.
The following table presents the net gains and losses on non-marketable and other equity securities in 2020, 2019 and 2018 as recorded in the line item “Gains on investment securities, net," a component of noninterest income:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Net gains (losses) on non-marketable and other equity securities:
Non-marketable securities (fair value accounting):
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments
$32,439 $22,507 $20,999 
Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments59,909 31,482 39,075 
Other investments without a readily determinable fair value253 2,742 3,206 
Other equity securities in public companies (fair value accounting)104,865 7,772 (25,483)
Non-marketable securities (equity method accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments161,828 73,813 49,341 
Debt funds(403)1,647 541 
Other investments696 (1,388)1,155 
Total net gains on non-marketable and other equity securities $359,587 $138,575 $88,834 
Less: realized net gains (losses) on sales of non-marketable and other equity securities23,344 4,744 (26,097)
Net gains on non-marketable and other equity securities still held$336,243 $133,831 $114,931 
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Receivables [Abstract]  
Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans and Unfunded Credit Commitments Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans and Unfunded Credit Commitments
We serve a variety of commercial clients in the technology, life science/healthcare, private equity/venture capital and premium wine industries. Our technology clients generally tend to be in the industries of hardware (such as semiconductors, communications, data, storage and electronics), software/internet (such as infrastructure software, applications, software services, digital content and advertising technology) and energy and resource innovation ("ERI"). Our life science/healthcare clients primarily tend to be in the industries of biotechnology, medical devices, healthcare information technology and healthcare services. Loans to our technology, life science/healthcare and ERI clients are reported under the Investor Dependent, Cash Flow Dependent and Balance Sheet Dependent risk-based segments below. Loans made to private equity/venture capital firm clients typically enable them to fund investments prior to their receipt of funds from capital calls and are reported under the Global Fund Banking (previously Private Equity/Venture Capital) portfolio segment below. Loans to the premium wine industry focus on vineyards and wineries that produce grapes and wines of high quality. In addition to commercial loans, we make consumer loans through SVB Private Bank and provide real estate secured loans to eligible employees through our EHOP.
We also provide community development loans made as part of our responsibilities under the CRA. These loans are included within “construction loans” below and are primarily secured by real estate. Additionally, beginning in April 2020, we accepted applications under the PPP administered by the SBA under the CARES Act and originated loans to qualified small businesses. Disbursement of PPP funds under the CARES Act expired on August 8, 2020, however, on December 27, 2020, the Economic Aid Act was enacted, and allows borrowers to apply for PPP loans up to March 31, 2021, as well as allowing for certain PPP borrowers to apply for second draw loans.
CECL Adoption
On January 1, 2020, we adopted the new credit loss guidance, CECL, and all related amendments. Our loan portfolio was pooled into six portfolio segments that share similar risk characteristics and represent the level at which we developed our
systematic methodology to determine our allowance for credit losses. Further, our portfolio segments were disaggregated and grouped into ten classes of financing receivable that represent the level at which we monitor and assess credit risk, which we refer to as "risk-based segments". As such, our funded loans and credit quality disclosures below are primarily presented at the risk-based segment level of disaggregation. As of December 31, 2020, we have six portfolio segments and eleven risk-based segments reflective of the funding of SBA loans under the PPP. The comparative information below has been reclassified to conform to current period presentations. However, the financial results continue to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods. Certain prior period credit quality disclosures related to impaired loans and our individually and collectively evaluated loan portfolio have been superseded with the new CECL guidance but are included below for reference purposes. The superseded tables provided below are not comparative to our credit quality disclosures under the new credit loss guidance for 2020.
The composition of loans at amortized cost basis broken out by risk-based segment at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, is presented in the following table:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Global fund banking$25,543,198 $17,696,794 
Investor dependent:
Early stage1,485,866 1,624,221 
Mid stage1,564,870 1,047,398 
Later stage1,921,082 1,663,576 
Total investor dependent4,971,818 4,335,195 
Cash flow dependent:
Sponsor led buyout1,989,173 2,185,497 
Other2,945,360 2,238,741 
Total cash flow dependent4,934,533 4,424,238 
Private bank (1) (5)4,901,056 3,492,269 
Balance sheet dependent2,191,023 1,286,153 
Premium wine (1) (5)1,052,643 1,062,264 
Other (1) (5)27,687 867,723 
SBA loans1,559,530 — 
Total loans (2) (3) (4)$45,181,488 $33,164,636 
Allowance for credit losses(447,765)(304,924)
Net loans$44,733,723 $32,859,712 
(1)As of December 31, 2020, as a result of enhanced portfolio characteristic definitions for our risk-based segments, loans in the amount of $427 million and $53 million that would have been reported in Other under historical definitions, are now being reported in our Private Bank and Premium Wine risk-based segments, respectively.
(2)Total loans at amortized cost is net of unearned income of $226 million and $163 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
(3)Included within our total loan portfolio are credit card loans of $400 million and $395 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
(4)Included within our total loan portfolio are construction loans of $118 million and $183 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
(5)Of our total loans, the table below includes those secured by real estate at amortized cost at December 31, 2020 and 2019 and were comprised of the following:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Real estate secured loans:
Private bank:
Loans for personal residence
$3,392,237 $2,829,880 
Loans to eligible employees
481,098 401,396 
Home equity lines of credit
42,449 55,461 
Other
142,895 38,880 
Total private bank loans secured by real estate
$4,058,679 $3,325,617 
Premium wine
824,008 820,730 
Other
56,882 — 
Total real estate secured loans$4,939,569 $4,146,347 
v3.20.4
Premises and Equipment
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Premises and Equipment Premises and Equipment
Premises and equipment at December 31, 2020 and 2019 consisted of the following:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Computer software$296,324 $261,643 
Computer hardware91,870 82,643 
Leasehold improvements124,057 121,907 
Furniture and equipment50,036 46,300 
Total562,287 512,493 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization(386,469)(350,617)
Premises and equipment, net$175,818 $161,876 
Depreciation and amortization expense for premises and equipment was $52.8 million, $42.0 million and $38.1 million for the years ended 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
v3.20.4
Leases
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]  
Leases Leases
We have operating leases for our corporate offices and certain equipment utilized at those properties. We are obligated under a number of noncancelable operating leases for premises and equipment that expire at various dates, through 2030, and in most instances, include options to renew or extend at market rates and terms. Such leases may provide for periodic adjustments of rentals during the term of the lease based on changes in various economic indicators.
Total recorded balances for the lease assets and liabilities are as follows:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Assets:
Right-of-use assets - operating leases$209,932 $197,365 
Liabilities:
Lease liabilities - operating leases259,554 218,847 
The components of our lease cost and supplemental cash flow information related to leases for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
December 31,
 (Dollars in thousands)20202019
Operating lease cost$69,249 $41,049 
Short-term lease cost1,404 1,823 
Variable lease cost3,692 3,477 
Less: sublease income
(2,265)(4,492)
Total lease expense, net
$72,080 $41,857 
Supplemental cash flows information:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Cash paid for operating leases
$50,194 $44,976 
Noncash items during the period:
Lease obligations in exchange for obtaining right-of-use assets:
Operating leases
$75,244 $33,167 
The table below presents additional information related to the Company's leases as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31,
20202019
Weighted-average remaining term (in years) - operating leases6.056.29
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases (1) 2.38 %2.92 %
(1)The incremental borrowing rate used to calculate the lease liability was determined based on the facts and circumstances of the economic environment and the Company’s credit standing as of the effective date of ASC 842. Additionally, the total lease term and total lease payments were also considered in determining the rate. Based on these considerations the Company identified credit terms available under its existing credit lines which represent a collateralized borrowing rate that has varying credit terms that could be matched to total lease terms and total lease payments in ultimately determining the implied borrowing rate in each lease contract.
The following table presents our undiscounted future cash payments for our operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020:
Years ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands) 		Operating Leases
2021$51,547 
202248,847 
202348,190 
202442,418 
202532,080 
2026 and thereafter53,842 
Total lease payments$276,924 
Less: imputed interest(17,370)
Total lease liabilities$259,554 
Lease Exits
The Company periodically reviews its lease portfolio to assess whether leased office space is adequate for its operations. Due to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 and the continuation of the work-from-home policy, we decided to exit various locations during the three months ended December 31, 2020.
The Company exited from a portion of its corporate headquarters. In relation to this exit, net occupancy expenses were $7.6 million due to the accelerated depreciation of ROU assets and leasehold improvements, as well as additional termination costs. Premises and equipment expenses included $0.6 million related to the accelerated depreciation of furniture and fixtures. Both net occupancy and premises and equipment are included in the noninterest expense section of our consolidated statements of income.
Additionally, the Company decided to exit leases for portions of various office locations and market these spaces for sublease. When a company plans to utilize an ROU asset for less than it was initially intended, ASC 842, Leases, requires an evaluation for impairment and disclosure in accordance with ASC 360-10-45-2, Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. Using each location as a standalone asset group, we determined impairment charges are required. Impairment charges that totaled $16.8 million are included in net occupancy expense in the consolidated statements of income and represent the present value of remaining lease obligations on the cease use dates. The related leasehold improvements, furniture and fixtures for these locations were also impaired with a loss recorded to premises and equipment, of $4.4 million, which is included in the noninterest expense section of the consolidated statements of income. This impairment charge represents the historical cost of the asset less any accumulated depreciation.
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill
Goodwill at December 31, 2020 was $142.7 million, comprised of revenue generating synergies from our acquisition of SVB Leerink in 2019 as well as our acquisition of WRG's debt fund business in December 2020.
The changes in goodwill were as follows for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Goodwill
Beginning balance at December 31, 2018$— 
Acquisitions137,823 
Ending balance at December 31, 2019$137,823 
Acquisitions4,862 
Ending balance at December 31, 2020$142,685 
During 2020, we completed our annual goodwill impairment test as of September 30, 2020, as a result, we determined there was no impairment as of December 31, 2020. For more information on our annual impairment policies, see Note 2—“Summary of Significant Accounting Policies."

Other Intangible Assets
The following table presents the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of other intangible assets as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)Gross AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying Amount
Other intangible assets:
Customer relationships$42,000 $7,636 $34,364 $42,000 $3,818 $38,182 
Other36,300 9,229 27,071 18,900 7,665 11,235 
Total other intangible assets, net$78,300 $16,865 $61,435 $60,900 $11,483 $49,417 

For the year ended December 31, 2020, we recorded amortization expense of $5.4 million. Assuming no future impairments of other intangible assets or additional acquisitions or dispositions, the following table presents the Company's future expected amortization expense for other intangible assets that will continue to be amortized as of December 31, 2020:
Years ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands) 		Other
Intangible Assets
2021$8,217 
20228,141 
20238,141 
20248,141 
20256,900 
2026 and thereafter21,895 
Total future amortization expense$61,435 
v3.20.4
Deposits
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Deposits [Abstract]  
Deposits Deposits
The following table presents the composition of our deposits at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Noninterest-bearing demand$66,519,240 $40,841,570 
Interest-bearing checking and savings accounts4,800,831 568,256 
Money market28,406,195 17,749,736 
Money market deposits in foreign offices616,570 352,437 
Sweep deposits in foreign offices950,510 2,057,715 
Time688,461 188,093 
Total deposits$101,981,807 $61,757,807 
The aggregate amount of time deposit accounts individually equal to or greater than $250,000 totaled $682 million and $180 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. At December 31, 2020, time deposit accounts individually equal to or greater than $250,000 totaling $682 million were scheduled to mature within one year.
v3.20.4
Short-Term Borrowings and Long-Term Debt
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Short-Term Borrowings and Long-Term Debt Short-Term Borrowings and Long-Term Debt
The following table represents outstanding short-term borrowings and long-term debt at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
   Carrying Value
(Dollars in thousands)MaturityPrincipal value at December 31, 2020December 31,
2020		December 31,
2019
Short-term borrowings:
Other short-term borrowings(1)$20,553 $20,553 $17,430 
Total short-term borrowings$20,553 $17,430 
Long-term debt:
3.50% Senior Notes
January 29, 2025$350,000 $348,348 $347,987 
3.125% Senior Notes
June 5, 2030500,000 495,280 — 
Total long-term debt$843,628 $347,987 
(1)Represents cash collateral received from certain counterparties in relation to market value exposures of derivative contracts in our favor.

The aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt obligations as of December 31, 2020 are as follows:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		Amount
2021$— 
2022— 
2023— 
2024— 
2025348,348 
2026 and thereafter495,280 
Total$843,628 
Interest expense related to short-term borrowings and long-term debt was $25.1 million, $35.1 million and $46.6 million in 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The weighted average interest rate associated with our short-term borrowings was 0.80 percent as of December 31, 2020 and 1.55 percent as of December 31, 2019.

3.50% Senior Notes
In January 2015, SVB Financial issued $350 million of 3.50% Senior Notes due in January 2025. We received net proceeds of approximately $346.4 million after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and issuance costs. The balance of our 3.50% Senior Notes at December 31, 2020 was $348.3 million, which is reflective of $1.6 million of debt issuance costs and a $0.1 million discount.
3.125% Senior Notes
On June 5, 2020, the Company issued $500.0 million of 3.125% Senior Notes due in June 2030 ("3.125% Senior Notes"). The 3.125% Senior Notes may be redeemed by us, at our option, at any time prior to March 5, 2030, at a redemption price equal to the full aggregate principal amount plus a “make-whole” premium payment. We received net proceeds from this offering of approximately $495.4 million after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and issuance costs. The balance of our 3.125% Senior Notes at December 31, 2020 was $495.3 million, which is reflective of $4.3 million of debt issuance costs and a $0.4 million discount.
Short-term Borrowings
We have certain facilities in place to enable us to access short-term borrowings on a secured and unsecured basis. Our secured facilities include collateral pledged to the FHLB of San Francisco and the discount window at the FRB (using both fixed income securities and loans as collateral). Our unsecured facility consists of our uncommitted federal funds lines. As of December 31, 2020, collateral pledged to the FHLB of San Francisco was comprised primarily of fixed income investment securities and loans and had a carrying value of $6.8 billion, of which $5.8 billion was available to support additional borrowings. As of December 31, 2020, collateral pledged to the discount window at the FRB was comprised of fixed income investment securities and had a carrying value of $0.9 billion, all of which was unused and available to support additional borrowings. Our total unused and available borrowing capacity for our uncommitted federal funds lines totaled $1.9 billion at December 31, 2020. Our total unused and available borrowing capacity under our master repurchase agreements with various financial institutions totaled $4.0 billion at December 31, 2020.
On February 2, 2021, the Company issued $500 million of Senior Notes. The notes. Refer to Note 28—“Subsequent Events” for additional information.
v3.20.4
Derivative Financial Instruments
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Derivative Financial Instruments Derivative Financial Instruments
We primarily use derivative financial instruments to manage interest rate risk and currency exchange rate risk and to assist customers with their risk management objectives, which may include currency exchange rate risks and interest rate risks. Also, in connection with negotiating credit facilities and certain other services, we often obtain equity warrant assets giving us the right to acquire stock in private, venture-backed companies in the technology and life science/healthcare industries.
Interest Rate Risk
Interest rate risk is our primary market risk and can result from timing and volume differences in the repricing of our interest rate sensitive assets and liabilities and changes in market interest rates. To manage interest rate risk on our variable-interest rate loan portfolio, we enter into interest rate swap contracts to hedge against future changes in interest rates by using hedging instruments to lock in future cash inflows that would otherwise be impacted by movements in the market interest rates. We designate these interest rate swap contracts as cash flow hedges that qualify for hedge accounting under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging ("ASC 815"), and record them in other assets and other liabilities. For qualifying cash flow hedges, changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and recognized in earnings as the hedged item affects earnings. Derivative amounts affecting earnings are recognized consistent with the classification of the hedged item in the line item "Loans" as part of interest income, a component of consolidated net income.
We assess hedge effectiveness under ASC 815 on a quarterly basis to ensure all hedges remain highly effective to ensure hedge accounting under ASC 815 can be applied. If the hedging relationship no longer exists or no longer qualifies as a hedge per ASC 815, any amounts remaining as gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified into earnings in the line item "loans" as part of interest income, a component of consolidated net income. As of March 31, 2020, all derivatives previously classified as hedges with notional balances totaling $5.0 billion and a net asset fair value of $227.5 million were terminated. As of December 31, 2020, the total unrealized gains on terminated cash flow hedges remaining in AOCI is $179.0 million, or $129.3 million net of tax. The unrealized gains will be reclassified into interest income as the underlying forecasted transactions impact earnings through the original maturity of the hedged forecasted transactions. The total remaining term over which the unrealized gains will be reclassified into earnings is approximately four years.
Currency Exchange Risk
We enter into foreign exchange forward contracts to economically reduce our foreign exchange exposure risk associated with the net difference between foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. We do not designate any foreign exchange forward contracts as derivative instruments that qualify for hedge accounting. Gains or losses from changes in currency rates on foreign currency denominated instruments are recorded in the line item "other" as part of noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income. We may experience ineffectiveness in the economic hedging relationship, because the instruments are revalued based upon changes in the currency’s spot rate on the principal value, while the forwards are revalued on a discounted cash flow basis. We record forward agreements in gain positions in other assets and loss positions in other liabilities, while net changes in fair value are recorded in the line item "other" as part of noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income.
Other Derivative Instruments
Also included in our derivative instruments are equity warrant assets and client forward and option contracts, and client interest rate contracts. For further description of these other derivative instruments, refer to Note 2—“Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.”
Counterparty Credit Risk
We are exposed to credit risk if counterparties to our derivative contracts do not perform as expected. We mitigate counterparty credit risk through credit approvals, limits, monitoring procedures and obtaining collateral, as appropriate. With respect to measuring counterparty credit risk for derivative instruments, we measure the fair value of a group of financial assets and financial liabilities on a net risk basis by counterparty portfolio.
The total notional or contractual amounts and fair value of our derivative financial instruments at December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
 December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Notional or
Contractual
Amount		Fair ValueNotional or
Contractual
Amount		Fair Value
(Dollars in thousands)Derivative Assets (1)Derivative Liabilities (1)Derivative Assets (1)Derivative Liabilities (1)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
 Interest rate risks:
Interest rate swaps
$— $— $— $1,915,000 $22,676 $— 
Interest rate swaps
— — — 3,085,000 — 25,623 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 Currency exchange risks:
Foreign exchange forwards68,381 306 — — — — 
Foreign exchange forwards566,988 — 20,566 300,250 — 2,154 
 Other derivative instruments:
Equity warrant assets253,153 203,438 — 225,893 165,473 — 
Client foreign exchange forwards8,025,973 214,969 — 4,661,517 114,546 — 
Client foreign exchange forwards7,490,723 — 188,565 4,326,059 — 94,745 
Client foreign currency options97,529 1,702 — 154,985 1,308 — 
Client foreign currency options97,522 — 1,702 154,985 — 1,308 
Client interest rate derivatives1,082,265 67,854 — 1,275,190 28,811 — 
Client interest rate derivatives (2)1,250,975 — 26,646 1,372,914 — 14,154 
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments488,269 237,479 310,138 112,361 
Total derivatives
$488,269 $237,479 $332,814 $137,984 
(1)Derivative assets and liabilities are included in "accrued interest receivable and other assets" and "other liabilities", respectively, on our consolidated balance sheets.
(2)The amount reported reflects reductions of approximately $45.4 million and $17.4 million of derivative liabilities at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, reflecting variation margin treated as settlement of the related derivative fair values for legal and accounting purposes as required by central clearing houses.
A summary of our derivative activity and the related impact on our consolidated statements of income for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
  Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)Statement of income location   202020192018
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
 Interest rate risks:
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into incomeInterest income—loans$49,928 $(5,358)$— 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 Currency exchange risks:
Gains (losses) on revaluations of internal foreign currency instruments, netOther noninterest income$39,247 $1,444 $(373)
(Losses) gains on internal foreign exchange forward contracts, netOther noninterest income(39,716)(1,853)52 
Net losses associated with internal currency risk$(469)$(409)$(321)
 Other derivative instruments:
Gains (losses) on revaluations of client foreign currency instruments, net Other noninterest income$2,560 $(15,146)$4,998 
(Losses) gains on client foreign exchange forward contracts, netOther noninterest income(3,017)15,900 (4,011)
Net (losses) gains associated with client currency risk $(457)$754 $987 
Net gains on equity warrant assetsGains on equity warrant assets, net$237,428 $138,078 $89,142 
Net gains (losses) on other derivatives Other noninterest income$28,056 $(1,190)$(179)
Balance Sheet Offsetting
Certain of our derivative and other financial instruments are subject to enforceable master netting arrangements with our counterparties. These agreements provide for the net settlement of multiple contracts with a single counterparty through a single payment, in a single currency, in the event of default on or termination of any one contract. The following table summarizes our assets subject to enforceable master netting arrangements as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Gross Amounts of Recognized AssetsGross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial PositionNet Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial PositionGross Amounts Not Offset in the Statement of Financial Position But Subject to Master Netting ArrangementsNet Amount
Financial InstrumentsCash Collateral Received (1)
December 31, 2020:
Derivative Assets:
Interest rate swaps
$— $— $— $— $— $— 
Foreign exchange forwards
215,275 — 215,275 (75,983)(20,550)118,742 
Foreign currency options
1,702 — 1,702 (1,045)(3)654 
Client interest rate derivatives
67,854 — 67,854 (67,854)— — 
Total derivative assets:284,831 — 284,831 (144,882)(20,553)119,396 
Reverse repurchase, securities borrowing, and similar arrangements
226,847 — 226,847 (226,847)— — 
Total$511,678 $— $511,678 $(371,729)$(20,553)$119,396 
December 31, 2019:
Derivative Assets:
Interest rate swaps$22,676 $— $22,676 $(22,598)$— $78 
Foreign exchange forwards
114,546 — 114,546 (36,855)(17,095)60,596 
Foreign currency options
1,308 — 1,308 (848)(335)125 
Client interest rate derivatives
28,811 — 28,811 (28,811)— — 
Total derivative assets:167,341 — 167,341 (89,112)(17,430)60,799 
Reverse repurchase, securities borrowing, and similar arrangements
289,340 — 289,340 (289,340)— — 
Total$456,681 $— $456,681 $(378,452)$(17,430)$60,799 
(1)Cash collateral received from our counterparties in relation to market value exposures of derivative contracts in our favor is recorded as a component of “short-term borrowings” on our consolidated balance sheets.
The following table summarizes our liabilities subject to enforceable master netting arrangements as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Gross Amounts of Recognized LiabilitiesGross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial PositionNet Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial PositionGross Amounts Not Offset in the Statement of Financial Position But Subject to Master Netting ArrangementsNet Amount
Financial InstrumentsCash Collateral Pledged (1)
December 31, 2020:
Derivative Liabilities:
   Interest rate swaps$— $— $— $— $— $— 
   Foreign exchange forwards209,131 — 209,131 (84,547)(45,367)79,217 
   Foreign currency options1,702 — 1,702 (645)(8)1,049 
   Client interest rate derivatives26,646 — 26,646 — (26,100)546 
Total derivative liabilities:237,479 — 237,479 (85,192)(71,475)80,812 
Repurchase, securities lending, and similar arrangements
— — — — — — 
Total$237,479 $— $237,479 $(85,192)$(71,475)$80,812 
December 31, 2019:
Derivative Liabilities:
   Interest rate swaps$25,623 $— $25,623 $(22,676)$(2,947)$— 
   Foreign exchange forwards96,899 — 96,899 (33,314)(22,030)41,555 
   Foreign currency options1,308 — 1,308 (531)— 777 
   Client interest rate derivatives14,154 — 14,154 — (13,936)218 
Total derivative liabilities:137,984 — 137,984 (56,521)(38,913)42,550 
Repurchase, securities lending, and similar arrangements
— — — — — — 
Total$137,984 $— $137,984 $(56,521)$(38,913)$42,550 
(1)Cash collateral pledged to our counterparties in relation to market value exposures of derivative contracts in a liability position and repurchase agreements are recorded as a component of “cash and cash equivalents" on our consolidated balance sheets.
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Noninterest Income Noninterest Income
All of the Company's revenue from contracts with customers within the scope of ASC 606 is recognized within noninterest income. Included below is a summary of noninterest income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Noninterest income:
Gains on investment securities, net$420,752 $134,670 $88,094 
Gains on equity warrant assets, net237,428 138,078 89,142 
Client investment fees132,200 182,068 130,360 
Foreign exchange fees178,733 159,262 138,812 
Credit card fees97,737 118,719 94,072 
Deposit service charges90,336 89,200 76,097 
Lending related fees57,533 49,920 41,949 
Letters of credit and standby letters of credit fees46,659 42,669 34,600 
Investment banking revenue413,985 195,177 — 
Commissions66,640 56,346 — 
Other98,145 55,370 51,858 
Total noninterest income$1,840,148 $1,221,479 $744,984 
Gains on investment securities, net
Net gains on investment securities include both gains and losses from our non-marketable and other equity securities, which include public equity securities as a result of exercised equity warrant assets, gains and losses from sales of our AFS debt securities portfolio, when applicable, and carried interest.
Our non-marketable and other equity securities portfolio primarily represents investments in venture capital and private equity funds, our China Joint Venture, debt funds, private and public portfolio companies, which include public equity securities held as a result of exercised equity warrant assets and qualified affordable housing projects. We experience variability in the performance of our non-marketable and other equity securities from period to period, which results in net gains or losses on investment securities (both realized and unrealized). This variability is due to a number of factors, including unrealized changes in the values of our investments, changes in the amount of realized gains from distributions, changes in liquidity events and general economic and market conditions. Unrealized gains from non-marketable and other equity securities for any single period are typically driven by valuation changes.
The extent to which any unrealized gains or losses will become realized is subject to a variety of factors, including, among other things, the expiration of certain sales restrictions to which these equity securities may be subject to (e.g., lock-up agreements), changes in prevailing market prices, market conditions, the actual sales or distributions of securities, and the timing of such actual sales or distributions, which, to the extent such securities are managed by our managed funds, are subject to our funds' separate discretionary sales/distributions and governance processes.
Carried interest is comprised of preferential allocations of profits recognizable when the return on assets of our individual managed fund of funds and direct venture funds exceeds certain performance targets and is payable to us, as the general partners of the managed funds. The carried interest we earn is often shared with employees, who are also members of the general partner entities. We record carried interest on a quarterly basis by measuring fund performance to date versus the performance target. For our unconsolidated managed funds, carried interest is recorded as gains on investment securities, net. For our consolidated managed funds, it is recorded as a component of net income attributable to noncontrolling interests. Carried interest allocated to others is recorded as a component of net income attributable to noncontrolling interests. Any carried interest paid to us (or our employees) may be subject to reversal to the extent fund performance declines to a level where inception to date carried interest is lower than actual payments made by the funds. The limited partnership agreements for our funds provide that carried interest is generally not paid to the general partners until the funds have provided a full return of contributed capital to the limited partners. Accrued, but unpaid carried interest may be subject to reversal to the extent that the fund performance declines to a level where inception-to-date carried interest is less than prior amounts recognized. Carried interest income is accounted for under an ownership model based on ASC 323 — Equity Method of Accounting and ASC 810 — Consolidation.
Our AFS securities portfolio is a fixed income investment portfolio that is managed with the objective of earning an appropriate portfolio yield over the long-term while maintaining sufficient liquidity and credit diversification as well as addressing our asset/liability management objectives. Though infrequent, sales of debt securities in our AFS securities portfolio may result in net gains or losses and are conducted pursuant to the guidelines of our investment policy related to the management of our liquidity position and interest rate risk.
Gains on investment securities are recognized outside of the scope of ASC 606 as it explicitly excludes noninterest income earned from our investment-related activities. A summary of gains and losses on investment securities for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
  Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net$359,587 $138,575 $88,834 
Gains (losses) on sales of available-for-sale debt securities, net61,165 (3,905)(740)
Total gains on investment securities, net$420,752 $134,670 $88,094 
Gains on equity warrant assets, net
In connection with negotiating credit facilities and certain other services, we often obtain rights to acquire stock in the form of equity warrant assets in primarily private, venture-backed companies in the technology and life science/healthcare industries. Any changes in fair value from the grant date fair value of equity warrant assets will be recognized as increases or decreases to other assets on our balance sheet and as net gains or losses on equity warrant assets, in noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income.
Gains on equity warrant assets are recognized outside of the scope of ASC 606 as it explicitly excludes noninterest income earned from our derivative-related activities. A summary of net gains on equity warrant assets for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
  Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Equity warrant assets:
Gains on exercises, net$179,648 $107,168 $58,186 
Terminations(1,948)(3,502)(5,964)
Changes in fair value, net59,728 34,412 36,920 
Total net gains on equity warrant assets $237,428 $138,078 $89,142 
Client investment fees
Client investment fees include fees earned from discretionary investment management services for substantially all clients, managing clients’ portfolios based on their investment policies, strategies and objectives and investment advisory fees. Revenue is recognized on a monthly basis upon completion of our performance obligation and consideration is typically received in the subsequent month. Included in our sweep money market fees are Rule 12(b)-1 fees, revenue sharing and customer transactional-based fees. Rule 12(b)-1 fees and revenue sharing are recognized as earned based on client funds that are invested in the period, typically monthly. Transactional based fees are earned and recognized on fixed income securities when the transaction is executed on the clients' behalf. Amounts paid to third-party service providers are predominantly expensed, such that client investment fees are recorded gross of payments made to third parties. A summary of client investment fees by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Client investment fees by type:
Sweep money market fees$74,176 $104,236 $75,654 
Asset management fees (1)42,768 28,665 23,882 
Repurchase agreement fees15,256 49,167 30,824 
Total client investment fees (2)$132,200 $182,068 $130,360 
(1)Represents fees earned from investments in third-party money market mutual funds and fixed-income securities managed by SVB Asset Management.
(2)Represents fees earned on client investment funds which are maintained at third-party financial institutions and are not recorded on our balance sheet.
Foreign exchange fees
Foreign exchange fees represent the income differential between purchases and sales of foreign currency on behalf of our clients, primarily from spot contracts. Foreign exchange spot contract fees are recognized upon the completion of the single performance obligation, the execution of a spot trade in exchange for a fee. In line with customary business practice, the legal right transfers to the client upon execution of a foreign exchange contract on the trade date, and as such, we currently recognize our fees based on the trade date and the transactions are typically settled within two business days.
Forward contract and option premium fees are recognized outside of the scope of ASC 606 as it explicitly excludes noninterest income earned from our derivative-related activities. A summary of foreign exchange fee income by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Foreign exchange fees by instrument type:
Spot contract commissions$157,852 $145,915 $127,459 
Forward contract commissions19,849 13,068 10,940 
Option premium fees1,032 279 413 
Total foreign exchange fees$178,733 $159,262 $138,812 
Credit card fees
Credit card fees include interchange income from credit and debit cards and fees earned from processing transactions for merchants. Interchange income is earned after satisfying our performance obligation of providing nightly settlement services to a payment network. Costs related to rewards programs are recorded when the rewards are earned by the customer and presented as a reduction to interchange fee income. Rewards programs continue to be accounted for under ASC 310 - Receivables. Our performance obligations for merchant service fees are to transmit data and funds between the merchant and the payment network. Credit card interchange and merchant service fees are earned daily upon completion of transaction settlement services.
Annual card service fees are recognized on a straight-line basis over a 12-month period and continue to be accounted for under ASC 310 - Receivables. A summary of credit card fees by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Credit card fees by instrument type:
Card interchange fees, net $75,562 $93,553 $74,381 
Merchant service fees17,732 18,355 14,420 
Card service fees4,443 6,811 5,271 
Total credit card fees$97,737 $118,719 $94,072 
Deposit service charges
Deposit service charges include fees earned from performing cash management activities and other deposit account services. Deposit services include, but are not limited to, the following: receivables services, which include merchant services, remote capture, lockbox, electronic deposit capture, and fraud control services. Payment and cash management products and services include wire transfer and automated clearing house payment services to enable clients to transfer funds more quickly, as well as business bill pay, business credit and debit cards, account analysis, and disbursement services. Deposit service charges are recognized over the period in which the related performance obligation is provided, generally on a monthly basis, and are presented in the "Disaggregation of revenue from contracts with customers" table below.
Lending related fees
Unused commitment fees, minimum finance fees and unused line fees are recognized as earned on a monthly basis. Fees that qualify for syndication treatment are recognized at the completion of the syndicated loan deal for which the fees were received.
Lending related fees are recognized outside of the scope of ASC 606 as it explicitly excludes noninterest income earned from our lending-related activities. A summary of lending related fees by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Lending related fees by instrument type:
Unused commitment fees$42,399 $34,829 $32,452 
Other 15,134 15,091 9,497 
Total lending related fees$57,533 $49,920 $41,949 
Letters of credit and standby letters of credit fees
Commercial and standby letters of credit represent conditional commitments issued by us on behalf of a client to guarantee the performance of the client to a third party when certain specified future events have occurred. Fees generated from letters of credit and standby letters of credit are deferred as a component of other liabilities and recognized in noninterest income over the commitment period using the straight-line method, based on the likelihood that the commitment being drawn down will be remote. Letters of credit and standby letters of credit fees are recognized outside of the scope of ASC 606 as it explicitly excludes noninterest income earned from our lending related activities.
Investment banking revenue
We earn investment banking revenue from clients for providing services related to securities underwriting, private placements and advisory services on strategic matters such as mergers and acquisitions. Underwriting fees are attributable to public and private offerings of equity and debt securities and are recognized at the point in time when the offering has been deemed to be completed by the lead manager of the underwriting group. Once the offering is completed, the performance obligation has been satisfied; we recognize the applicable management fee as well as the underwriting fee, net of consideration payable to customers. Private placement fees are recognized at the point in time when the private placement is completed, which is generally when the client accepts capital from the fund raise. Advisory fees from mergers and acquisitions engagements are generally recognized at the point in time when the related transaction is completed. Expenses are deferred only to the extent they are explicitly reimbursable by the client and the related revenue is recognized at a point in time. All other deal-related expenses are expensed as incurred. We have determined that we act as principal in the majority of these transactions and therefore present expenses gross within other operating expenses.
A summary of investment banking revenue by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
  Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Investment banking revenue:
Underwriting fees$352,951 $153,306 $— 
Advisory fees40,006 37,846 — 
Private placements and other 21,028 4,025 — 
Total investment banking revenue $413,985 $195,177 $— 
Commissions
Commissions include commissions received from clients for the execution of agency-based brokerage transactions in listed and over-the-counter equities. The execution of each trade order represents a distinct performance obligation and the transaction price is fixed at the point in time or trade order execution. Trade execution is satisfied at the point in time that the customer has control of the asset and as such, fees are recorded on a trade date basis. Commissions are presented in the "Disaggregation of revenue from contracts with customers" table below.
Other
Other noninterest income primarily includes income from fund management fees, gains from conversion of convertible debt options and service revenue. Fund management fees are comprised of fees charged directly to our managed funds of funds and direct venture funds. Fund management fees are based upon the contractual terms of the limited partnership agreements and are generally recognized as earned over the specified contract period, which is generally equal to the life of the individual fund. Fund management fees are calculated as a percentage of committed capital and collected in advance and are received quarterly. Fund management fees for certain of our limited partnership agreements are calculated as a percentage of distributions made by the funds and revenue is recorded only at the time of a distribution event. As distribution
events are not predetermined for these certain funds, management fees are considered variable and constrained under ASC 606.
Gains from conversion of convertible debt options represent unrealized valuation gains on loan conversion derivative assets, and realized gains from the conversion of debt instruments, convertible into a third party’s common stock upon a triggering event such as an IPO. Gains from conversion of convertible debt options are recognized outside of the scope of ASC 606 as it explicitly excludes noninterest income earned from our derivative-related activities.
Other service revenue primarily consists of dividend income on FHLB/FRB stock, correspondent bank rebate income, incentive fees related to carried interest and other fee income. We recognize revenue when our performance obligations are met and record revenues on a daily/monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual basis. For event driven revenue sources, we recognize revenue when: (i) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (ii) we have performed the service, provided we have no other remaining obligations to the customer, (iii) the fee is fixed or determinable and (iv) collectability is probable.
A summary of other noninterest income by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Other noninterest income by instrument type:
Fund management fees$38,960 $32,522 $23,016 
Net (losses) gains on revaluation of foreign currency instruments, net of foreign exchange forward contracts (1)(926)345 666 
Losses on extinguishment of debt— (8,960)— 
Gains from conversion of convertible debt options30,018 — — 
Other service revenue30,093 31,463 28,176 
Total other noninterest income$98,145 $55,370 $51,858 
(1)Represents the net revaluation of client and internal foreign currency denominated financial instruments. We enter into foreign exchange forward contracts to economically reduce our foreign exchange exposure related to client and internal foreign currency denominated financial instruments.

Disaggregation of Revenue from Contracts with Customers
The following tables present our revenues from contracts with customers disaggregated by revenue source and segment for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018:
Year ended December 31, 2020Global
Commercial
Bank (2)		SVB Private  
Bank		SVB Capital (2)SVB Leerink (2)Other ItemsTotal      

(Dollars in thousands)
Revenue from contracts with customers:
Client investment fees
$129,378 $2,822 $— $— $— $132,200 
Spot contract commissions
156,725 544 — — 583 157,852 
Card interchange fees, gross
128,239 23 — — 1,545 129,807 
Merchant service fees
17,732 — — — — 17,732 
Deposit service charges
89,565 81 — — 690 90,336 
Investment banking revenue
— — — 413,985 — 413,985 
Commissions
— — — 66,640 — 66,640 
Fund management fees
— — 32,233 6,727 — 38,960 
Performance fees— — 3,601 — — 3,601 
Correspondent bank rebates
5,729 — — — — 5,729 
Total revenue from contracts with customers$527,368 $3,470 $35,834 $487,352 $2,818 $1,056,842 
Revenues outside the scope of ASC 606 (1)78,365 66 190,120 8,624 506,131 783,306 
Total noninterest income$605,733 $3,536 $225,954 $495,976 $508,949 $1,840,148 
(1)Amounts are accounted for under separate guidance than ASC 606.
(2)Global Commercial Bank’s, SVB Capital’s and SVB Leerink's components of noninterest income are shown net of noncontrolling interests. Noncontrolling interest is included within “Other Items."
Year ended December 31, 2019Global
Commercial
Bank (2)		SVB Private  
Bank		SVB Capital (2)SVB Leerink (2)Other ItemsTotal      

(Dollars in thousands)
Revenue from contracts with customers:
Client investment fees $180,152 $1,916 $— $— $— $182,068 
Spot contract commissions
144,930 510 — — 475 145,915 
Card interchange fees, gross
154,197 — — — 756 154,953 
Merchant service fees
18,355 — — — — 18,355 
Deposit service charges
88,136 137 — — 927 89,200 
Investment banking revenue— — — 195,177 — 195,177 
Commissions— — — 56,346 — 56,346 
Fund management fees
— — 26,850 5,672 — 32,522 
Correspondent bank rebates
6,415 — — — — 6,415 
Total revenue from contracts with customers$592,185 $2,563 $26,850 $257,195 $2,158 $880,951 
Revenues outside the scope of ASC 606 (1)45,737 803 95,544 7,321 191,123 340,528 
Total noninterest income$637,922 $3,366 $122,394 $264,516 $193,281 $1,221,479 
(1)Amounts are accounted for under separate guidance than ASC 606.
(2)Global Commercial Bank’s, SVB Capital’s and SVB Leerink's components of noninterest income are shown net of noncontrolling interests. Noncontrolling interest is included within “Other Items."
Year ended December 31, 2018Global
Commercial
Bank (2)		SVB Private  
Bank		SVB Capital (2)Other ItemsTotal      

(Dollars in thousands)
Revenue from contracts with customers:
Client investment fees (3)$128,834 $1,526 $— $— $130,360 
Spot contract commissions
126,445 691 — 323 127,459 
Card interchange fees, gross
134,074 — — 428 134,502 
Merchant service fees
14,415 4 — 1 14,420 
Deposit service charges
74,348 108 — 1,641 76,097 
Fund management fees
— — 23,016 — 23,016 
Correspondent bank rebates
5,802 — — — 5,802 
Total revenue from contracts with customers$483,918 $2,329 $23,016 $2,393 $511,656 
Revenues outside the scope of ASC 606 (1)36,384 (48)78,165 118,827 233,328 
Total noninterest income$520,302 $2,281 $101,181 $121,220 $744,984 
(1)Amounts are accounted for under separate guidance than ASC 606.
(2)Global Commercial Bank’s and SVB Capital’s components of noninterest income are shown net of noncontrolling interests. Noncontrolling interest is included within “Other Items."
(3)For the year ended December 31, 2018, the amount of client investment fees previously reported as "Other Items" has been correctly allocated to the reportable segment "Global Commercial Bank" to properly reflect the source of such revenue. The correction of this immaterial error had no impact on the "Total" amount of client investment fees.
v3.20.4
Other Noninterest Expense
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]  
Other Noninterest Expense Other Noninterest Expense
A summary of other noninterest expense for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Lending and other client related processing costs$29,783 $28,491 $24,237 
Correspondent bank fees15,065 14,503 13,713 
Investment banking activities20,591 13,733 — 
Trade order execution costs11,144 10,813 — 
Data processing services14,910 12,536 10,811 
Telephone8,591 9,861 9,404 
Dues and publications4,251 4,603 4,605 
Postage and supplies2,545 3,198 2,799 
Other83,295 54,841 21,682 
Total other noninterest expense$190,175 $152,579 $87,251 
v3.20.4
Income Taxes
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Income Taxes Income Taxes
The components of our provision for income taxes for 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Current provision:
Federal$299,882 $296,400 $249,358 
State140,794 132,357 123,264 
Deferred expense (benefit):
Federal5,296 (1,530)(11,777)
State1,615 (1,542)(9,284)
Income tax expense$447,587 $425,685 $351,561 
Our effective tax rate is calculated by dividing income tax expense by the sum of income before income tax expense and the net income attributable to noncontrolling interests. The reconciliation between the federal statutory income tax rate and our effective income tax rate for 2020, 2019 and 2018, is as follows:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Federal statutory income tax rate21.0 %21.0 %21.0 %
State income taxes, net of the federal tax effect6.8 7.0 7.2 
Meals and entertainment0.1 0.4 0.3 
Disallowed officers' compensation0.2 0.2 0.2 
FDIC premiums0.3 0.2 0.5 
Share-based compensation expense on incentive stock options and ESPP(0.3)(0.6)(1.4)
Qualified affordable housing project tax credits(0.5)(0.3)(0.3)
Tax-exempt interest income(0.8)(0.6)(0.6)
Other, net0.2 (0.1)(0.4)
Effective income tax rate 27.0 %27.2 %26.5 %
Deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2020 and 2019, consisted of the following:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Deferred tax assets:
Allowance for credit losses$158,161 $103,267 
Share-based compensation expense15,531 14,233 
State income taxes16,640 16,097 
Accrued compensation44,112 22,578 
Lease liability69,714 60,635 
Other accruals 10,018 12,383 
Net operating loss7,501 6,386 
Goodwill and intangibles3,165 3,141 
Foreign tax credit carryforward 9,028 — 
SBA loan fees6,115 — 
Other8,110 7,923 
Deferred tax assets348,095 246,643 
Valuation allowance(7,094)(5,919)
Net deferred tax assets after valuation allowance341,001 240,724 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Derivative equity warrant assets(71,019)(45,533)
Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedge derivatives(49,772)— 
Net unrealized gains on AFS debt securities(185,634)(33,480)
Non-marketable and other equity securities(118,712)(54,239)
Premises and equipment and other intangibles(23,721)(16,459)
Right-of-use asset and deferred rent assets(52,057)(50,493)
Other(12,340)(12,087)
Deferred tax liabilities (513,255)(212,291)
Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets $(172,254)$28,433 
Net Deferred Tax Assets
U.S. federal net operating loss carryforwards totaled $1.9 million and $2.2 million for December 31, 2020 and 2019. Our foreign net operating loss carryforwards totaled $25.3 million and $20.8 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These net operating loss carryforwards expire at various dates beginning in 2022.
Currently, we believe that it is more likely than not that the benefit from the foreign net operating loss carryforwards, which are associated with our Germany and Canada operations, will not be realized in the near term due to uncertainties in the timing of future profitability in the course of business. In recognition of this, our valuation allowance is $7.1 million on the deferred tax assets related to our German and Canadian net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2020. We believe it is more likely than not that the remaining deferred tax assets will be realized through recovery of taxes previously paid and/or future taxable income. Therefore, no valuation allowance was provided for the remaining deferred tax assets.
We are subject to income tax and non-income based taxes by the U.S. federal tax authorities as well as various state and foreign tax authorities. We have identified the U.S. federal and California state jurisdictions as major tax filings. Our U.S. federal tax returns remain open to full examination for 2017 and subsequent tax years. Our California tax returns remain open to full examination for 2016 and subsequent tax years.
At December 31, 2020, our unrecognized tax benefit was $16.5 million, the recognition of which would reduce our income tax expense by $13.1 million. We do not expect that our unrecognized tax benefit will materially change in the next 12 months.
We recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters as part of income before income taxes. Interest and penalties were not material for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018.
A summary of changes in our unrecognized tax benefit (including interest and penalties) for December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax BenefitInterest and PenaltiesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2017$11,505 $1,178 $12,683 
Additions for tax positions for current year
4,171 — 4,171 
Additions for tax positions for prior years
631 823 1,454 
Reduction for tax positions for prior years
(1,865)(243)(2,108)
Lapse of the applicable statute of limitations
(435)(86)(521)
Reduction as a result of settlement
(1,318)(222)(1,540)
Balance at December 31, 2018$12,689 $1,450 $14,139 
Additions for tax positions for current year
3,712 — 3,712 
Additions for tax positions for prior years
63 826 889 
Reduction for tax positions for prior years
(884)(524)(1,408)
Lapse of the applicable statute of limitations
(1,826)(569)(2,395)
Reduction as a result of settlement
(1,142)(17)(1,159)
Balance at December 31, 2019$12,612 $1,166 $13,778 
Additions for tax positions for current year5,051 — 5,051 
Additions for tax positions for prior years1,765 1,224 2,989 
Reduction for tax positions for prior years(730)(69)(799)
Lapse of the applicable statute of limitations(1,100)(323)(1,423)
Reduction as a result of settlement(1,108)(219)(1,327)
Balance at December 31, 2020$16,490 $1,779 $18,269 
v3.20.4
Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans Our employee compensation and benefit plans include: (i) Incentive Compensation Plan; (ii) Direct Drive Incentive Compensation Plan; (iii) Retention Program; (iv) Warrant Incentive Plan; (v) Deferred Compensation Plan; (vi) 401(k) and ESOP; (vii) SVB Leerink Incentive Compensation Plan; (viii) SVB Leerink Retention Award; (ix) EHOP; (x) 2006 Incentive Plan; and (xi) ESPP. The 2006 Incentive Plan and the ESPP are described in Note 4—“Share-Based Compensation.”
A summary of expenses incurred under certain employee compensation and benefit plans for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Incentive Compensation Plan$193,004 $143,888 $160,293 
Direct Drive Incentive Compensation Plan37,681 37,315 40,578 
Retention Program— 2,438 1,438 
Warrant Incentive Plan33,921 14,881 9,112 
SVBFG 401(k) Plan29,939 25,687 21,323 
SVBFG ESOP5,807 4,197 6,435 
SVB Leerink Incentive Compensation Plan233,145 106,871 — 
SVB Leerink Retention Award12,991 12,015 — 
Incentive Compensation Plan
Our Incentive Compensation Plan (“ICP”) is an annual cash incentive plan that rewards performance based on our financial results and other performance criteria. Awards are made based on company performance, the employee's target bonus level and management's assessment of individual employee performance.
Direct Drive Incentive Compensation Plan
The Direct Drive Incentive Compensation Plan (“Direct Drive”) is an annual sales cash incentive program. Awards are based on sales teams' performance as to predetermined financial targets and other company/individual performance criteria. Actual awards for each sales team member under Direct Drive are based on: (i) the actual results and financial performance with respect to the incentive gross profit targets; (ii) the sales team payout targets; and (iii) the sales team member's sales position and team payout allocation.
Retention Program
The Retention Program (“RP”) is a long-term incentive plan that allows designated employees to share directly in our investment success. Plan participants were granted an interest in the distributions of gains from certain designated investments made by us during the applicable year. Specifically, participants share in: (i) returns from designated investments made by us, including investments in certain venture capital and private equity funds, debt funds and direct equity investments in companies; (ii) net income realized from the exercise of, and the subsequent sale of shares obtained through the exercise of, warrants held by us; and (iii) other designated amounts as determined by us. Since 2009, no new participants have been added and no new investments have been designated to the plan. The final distributions under this program were made during 2020 and we did not incur any expenses for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Warrant Incentive Plan
The Warrant Incentive Plan provides individual and team awards to those employees who negotiate warrants on our behalf. Designated participants, as determined by the Company, share in the cash proceeds received by the Company from the exercise of equity warrant assets.
Deferred Compensation Plan
Under the Deferred Compensation Plan (the “DC Plan”), eligible employees may elect to defer up to 50 percent of their base salary and/or up to 100 percent of any eligible bonus payment earned during the plan year. Any amounts deferred under the DC Plan will be invested and administered by us (or such person we designate). We generally do not match employee deferrals to the DC Plan. From time to time, we may also offer deferred special retention incentives and employer contributions under this plan to key plan participants. The deferred incentives and employer contributions are eligible for investment in the DC Plan during the retention qualifying period or vesting period.
Voluntary deferrals under the DC Plan were $5.8 million $6.9 million and $5.5 million in 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The DC Plan overall, had investment gains of $8.5 million, gains of $6.9 million and losses of $1.7 million in 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
401(k) and ESOP
The 401(k) Plan and ESOP, collectively referred to as the “Plan”, is a combined 401(k) tax-deferred savings plan and employee stock ownership plan in which all regular U.S. employees are eligible to participate.
Employees participating in the 401(k) Plan are allowed to contribute up to 75 percent of their pre-tax pay as defined in the Plan, up to the maximum annual amount allowable under federal income tax regulations of $19,500 for 2020, $19,000 for 2019, and $18,500 for 2018. We match the employee's contributions dollar-for-dollar, up to five percent of the employee's pre-tax pay as defined in the Plan. Our matching contributions vest immediately. The amount of salary deferred, up to the allowed maximum, is not subject to federal or state income taxes at the time of deferral.
Discretionary ESOP contributions, based on our company performance, are made by us to all eligible individuals employed by us on the last day of the fiscal year. We may elect to contribute cash or our common stock (or a combination of cash and stock), in an amount not exceeding ten percent of the employee's eligible pay earned in the fiscal year. The ESOP contributions vest in equal annual increments over a participant's first five years of service (thereafter, all subsequent ESOP contributions are fully vested).
SVB Leerink Incentive Compensation Plan
Our SVB Leerink Incentive Compensation Plan is an annual cash incentive plan that rewards performance of SVB Leerink employees based on SVB Leerink's financial results. This plan requires employees who exceed certain compensation levels to defer a portion of their compensation, of which, 25% will be settled in the form of restricted stock units and 75% will be settled in the form of cash. The deferred compensation vests over a period of up to five years.
SVB Leerink Retention Award
The SVB Leerink Retention Award is an incentive award that granted designated SVB Leerink employees restricted stock awards and cash after the close of the acquisition of SVB Leerink in January 2019. The aggregate amount of the awards was $60 million, of which 50% will be settled in the form of cash and 50% in the form of restricted stock awards. The awards vest in equal annual increments over five years.
EHOP Program
The EHOP is a benefit plan that provides for the issuance of mortgage loans to eligible employees. Eligible employees may apply for either an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) or a fixed rate loan for their primary residence. The ARM is a 30 year loan and has an initial fixed interest rate for five, seven or ten years after which a floating rate will be set annually. The fixed rate loan program offers a 15 or 30 years loan and the interest rate is fixed for the life of the loan. Applicants must qualify for a loan through the normal mortgage review and approval process, which is typical of industry standards. The maximum loan amount generally cannot be greater than 85 percent of the lesser of the purchase price or the appraised value. The interest rate on the fixed-rate loan is written at SVB Private Bank client mortgage rates and determined at SVB's discretion. Floating rates applied at the end of the fixed-rate period will be reset annually at 12 month LIBOR plus two and one quarter percent. For additional details, see Note 9—“Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans and Unfunded Credit Commitments.''
v3.20.4
Related Parties
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]  
Related Parties Related Parties We have no material related party transactions requiring disclosure. In the ordinary course of business, the Bank may extend credit to related parties, including executive officers, directors, principal shareholders and their related interests. Additionally, we also provide real estate secured loans to eligible employees through our EHOP. For additional details, see Note 19—“Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans.”
v3.20.4
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments In the normal course of business, we use financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk to meet the financing needs of our customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit, commercial and standby letters of credit and commitments to invest in venture capital and private equity fund investments. These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit risk. Credit risk is defined as the possibility of sustaining a loss because other parties to the financial instrument fail to perform in accordance with the terms of the contract.
Commitments to Extend Credit
A commitment to extend credit is a formal agreement to lend funds to a client as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the agreement. Such commitments generally have fixed expiration dates, or other termination clauses, and usually require a fee paid by the client upon us issuing the commitment. The following table summarizes information related to our commitments to extend credit at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Loan commitments (1)$28,975,133 $21,743,359 
Commercial and standby letters of credit (2)3,007,118 2,778,561 
Total unfunded credit commitments$31,982,251 $24,521,920 
Allowance for unfunded credit commitments (3)120,796 67,656 
(1)Represents commitments which are available for funding, due to clients meeting all collateral, compliance and financial covenants required under loan commitment agreements.
(2)See below for additional information on our commercial and standby letters of credit.
(3)Our allowance for credit losses for unfunded credit commitments includes an allowance for both our unfunded loan commitments and our letters of credit.

Our potential exposure to credit loss for commitments to extend credit, in the event of nonperformance by the other party to the financial instrument, is the contractual amount of the available unused loan commitment. We use the same credit approval and monitoring process in extending credit commitments as we do in making loans. The actual liquidity needs and the credit risk that we have experienced have historically been lower than the contractual amount of commitments to extend credit because a significant portion of these commitments expire without being drawn upon. We evaluate each potential borrower and the necessary collateral on an individual basis. The type of collateral varies, but may include real property, intellectual property, bank deposits or business and personal assets. The credit risk associated with these commitments is considered in the allowance for unfunded credit commitments.
Commercial and Standby Letters of Credit
Commercial and standby letters of credit represent conditional commitments issued by us on behalf of a client to guarantee the performance of the client to a third party when certain specified future events have occurred. Commercial letters of credit are issued primarily for inventory purchases by a client and are typically short-term in nature. We provide two types of standby letters of credit: performance and financial standby letters of credit. Performance standby letters of credit are issued to guarantee the performance of a client to a third party when certain specified future events have occurred and are primarily used to support performance instruments such as bid bonds, performance bonds, lease obligations, repayment of loans and past due notices. Financial standby letters of credit are conditional commitments issued by us to guarantee the payment by a client to a third party (beneficiary) and are primarily used to support many types of domestic and international payments. These standby letters of credit have fixed expiration dates and generally require a fee to be paid by the client at the time we issue the commitment.
The credit risk involved in issuing letters of credit is essentially the same as that involved with extending credit commitments to clients, and accordingly, we use a credit evaluation process and collateral requirements similar to those for credit commitments. Our standby letters of credit often are cash secured by our clients. The actual liquidity needs and the credit risk that we have experienced historically have been lower than the contractual amount of letters of credit issued because a significant portion of these conditional commitments expire without being drawn upon.
The table below summarizes our commercial and standby letters of credit at December 31, 2020. The maximum potential amount of future payments represents the amount that could be remitted under letters of credit if there were a total default by the guaranteed parties, without consideration of possible recoveries under recourse provisions or from the collateral held or pledged.
(Dollars in thousands)Expires In One Year or LessExpires After One YearTotal Amount OutstandingMaximum Amount of Future Payments
Financial standby letters of credit$2,807,942 $66,641 $2,874,583 $2,874,583 
Performance standby letters of credit108,681 19,488 128,169 128,169 
Commercial letters of credit4,366 — 4,366 4,366 
Total$2,920,989 $86,129 $3,007,118 $3,007,118 
Deferred fees related to financial and performance standby letters of credit were $16.9 million at December 31, 2020 and $17.2 million at December 31, 2019. At December 31, 2020, collateral in the form of cash of $1.7 billion was available to us to reimburse losses, if any, under financial and performance standby letters of credit.
Commitments to Invest in Venture Capital and Private Equity Funds
We make commitments to invest in venture capital and private equity funds, which generally makes investments in privately-held companies. Commitments to invest in these funds are generally made for a 10-year period from the inception of the fund. Although the limited partnership agreements governing these investments typically do not restrict the general partners from calling 100% of committed capital in one year, it is customary for these funds to call most of the capital commitments over 5 to 7 years, and in certain cases, the funds may not call 100% of committed capital. The actual timing of future cash requirements to fund these commitments is generally dependent upon the investment cycle, overall market conditions, and the nature and type of industry in which the privately held companies operate. The following table details our total capital commitments, unfunded capital commitments, and our ownership percentage in each fund at December 31, 2020:

(Dollars in thousands)		SVBFG Capital Commitments    SVBFG Unfunded 
Commitments		SVBFG Ownership 
of each Fund
CP II, LP (1)$1,200 $162 5.1 %
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP12,688 — 20.0 
Growth Partners, LP24,670 1,340 33.0 
Strategic Investors Fund, LP15,300 688 12.6 
Strategic Investors Fund II, LP15,000 1,050 8.6 
Strategic Investors Fund III, LP15,000 1,275 5.9 
Strategic Investors Fund IV, LP12,239 2,325 5.0 
Strategic Investors Fund V funds515 131 Various
Other venture capital and private equity fund investments (equity method accounting)
25,232 5,566 Various
Debt funds (equity method accounting) 58,733 211 Various
Other fund investments (2)277,301 9,335 Various
Total$457,878 $22,083 
(1)Our ownership includes direct ownership of 1.3 percent and indirect ownership of 3.8 percent through our investment in Strategic Investors Fund II, LP.
(2)Represents commitments to 168 funds (primarily venture capital funds) where our ownership interest is generally less than five of the voting interests of each such fund.
The following table details the amounts of remaining unfunded commitments to venture capital and private equity funds by our consolidated managed funds of funds (including our interest and the noncontrolling interests) at December 31, 2020:

(Dollars in thousands)		Unfunded Commitments    
Strategic Investors Fund, LP$196 
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP1,516 
Growth Partners, LP2,549 
Total$4,261 
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair Value Measurements
Our available-for-sale securities, derivative instruments and certain non-marketable and other equity securities are financial instruments recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. We make estimates regarding valuation of assets and liabilities measured at fair value in preparing our consolidated financial statements.
The following fair value hierarchy table presents information about our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2020:
(Dollars in thousands)
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3		Balance at December 31, 2020
Assets
Available-for-sale securities:
U.S. Treasury securities$4,469,728 $— $— $4,469,728 
U.S. agency debentures— 237,307 — 237,307 
Foreign government debt securities24,492 — — 24,492 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities
— 13,503,681 — 13,503,681 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate
— 8,106,564 — 8,106,564 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities— 4,570,666 — 4,570,666 
Total available-for-sale securities4,494,220 26,418,218 — 30,912,438 
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Non-marketable securities:
Venture capital and private equity fund investments measured at net asset value
— — — 273,823 
Other equity securities in public companies43,344 237,460 — 280,804 
Total non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value
accounting)		43,344 237,460 — 554,627 
Other assets:
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts— 216,977 — 216,977 
Equity warrant assets— 11,221 192,217 203,438 
Client interest rate derivatives— 67,854 — 67,854 
Total assets$4,537,564 $26,951,730 $192,217 $31,955,334 
Liabilities
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts$— $210,833 $— $210,833 
Client interest rate derivatives— 26,646 — 26,646 
Total liabilities$— $237,479 $— $237,479 
The following fair value hierarchy table presents information about our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Level 1Level 2Level 3Balance at December 31, 2019
Assets
Available-for-sale securities:
U.S. Treasury securities$6,894,010 $— $— $6,894,010 
U.S. agency debentures— 99,547 — 99,547 
Foreign government debt securities9,038 — — 9,038 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities— 4,148,791 — 4,148,791 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate— 1,538,343 — 1,538,343 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities— 1,325,190 — 1,325,190 
Total available-for-sale securities6,903,048 7,111,871 — 14,014,919 
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Non-marketable securities:
Venture capital and private equity fund investments measured at net asset value
— — — 265,263 
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
— — 134 134 
Other equity securities in public companies17,290 41,910 — 59,200 
Total non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value
accounting)		17,290 41,910 134 324,597 
Other assets:
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts— 115,854 — 115,854 
Equity warrant assets— 4,435 161,038 165,473 
Interest rate swaps— 22,676 — 22,676 
Client interest rate derivatives— 28,811 — 28,811 
Total assets$6,920,338 $7,325,557 $161,172 $14,672,330 
Liabilities
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts$— $98,207 $— $98,207 
Interest rate swaps— 25,623 — 25,623 
Client interest rate derivatives— 14,154 — 14,154 
Total liabilities$— $137,984 $— $137,984 
(1)Included in Level 3 assets is $120 thousand attributable to noncontrolling interests calculated based on the ownership percentages of the noncontrolling interests.
The following table presents additional information about Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis for 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively:
(Dollars in thousands)Beginning
Balance		Total Net Gains (Losses) Included in Net IncomePurchases  Sales/ExitsIssuances  Distributions and Other SettlementsTransfers Out of Level 3Ending
Balance
Year ended December 31, 2020:
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
$134 $(30)$— $(104)$— $— $— $— 
Other assets:
Equity warrant assets (2)161,038 228,944 — (214,933)19,014 — (1,846)192,217 
Total assets$161,172 $228,914 $— $(215,037)$19,014 $— $(1,846)$192,217 
Year ended December 31, 2019:
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
$1,079 $12 $— $(960)$— $3 $— $134 
Other assets:
Equity warrant assets (2)145,199 133,910 575 (130,392)16,453 — (4,707)161,038 
Total assets$146,278 $133,922 $575 $(131,352)$16,453 $3 $(4,707)$161,172 
Year ended December 31, 2018:
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
$919 $457 $— $— $— $(297)$— $1,079 
Other assets:
Equity warrant assets (2)121,331 87,982 — (78,752)17,941 — (3,303)145,199 
Total assets$122,250 $88,439 $— $(78,752)$17,941 $(297)$(3,303)$146,278 
(1)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) are recorded in the line item “Gains on investment securities, net,” a component of noninterest income.
(2)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) are recorded in the line item “Gains on equity warrant assets, net,” a component of noninterest income.
The following table presents the amount of unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings (which is inclusive of noncontrolling interest) attributable to Level 3 assets still held at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
$— $(222)
Other assets:
Equity warrant assets (2)54,417 34,691 
Total unrealized gains, net$54,417 $34,469 
Unrealized losses attributable to noncontrolling interests (1)$— $(199)
(1)Unrealized gains are recorded in the line item “Gains on investment securities, net,” a component of noninterest income.
(2)Unrealized gains are recorded in the line item “Gains on equity warrant assets, net,” a component of noninterest income.
The extent to which any unrealized gains or losses will become realized is subject to a variety of factors, including, among other things, the expiration of current sales restrictions to which these securities are subject, the actual sales of securities and the timing of such actual sales.
The following table presents quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used for certain of our Level 3 fair value measurements at December 31, 2020 and 2019. We have not included in this table our venture capital and private equity fund investments (fair value accounting) as we use net asset value per share (as obtained from the general partners of the investments) as a practical expedient to determine fair value.
(Dollars in thousands)Fair ValueValuation TechniqueSignificant Unobservable InputsInput RageWeighted Average
December 31, 2020:
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio)$1,036 Black-Scholes option pricing modelVolatility
46.0% - 56.8%
49.1 %
Risk-Free interest rate
0.3 - 0.9
0.6 
Sales restrictions discount (2)
10.0- 20.0
10.2 
Equity warrant assets (private portfolio)191,181 Black-Scholes option pricing modelVolatility
24.4 - 56.8
43.2 
Risk-Free interest rate
0.01 - 0.5
0.1 
Marketability discount (3)20.620.6 
Remaining life assumption (4)40.040.0 
December 31, 2019:
Venture capital and private equity fund investments (fair value accounting)
$134 Private company equity pricing(1)(1)(1)
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio)346 Black-Scholes option pricing modelVolatility
39.2% - 54.8%
50.7 %
Risk-Free interest rate1.91.9 
Sales restrictions discount (2)
10.0 - 20.0
13.6 
Equity warrant assets (private portfolio)160,692 Black-Scholes option pricing modelVolatility
23.6- 54.8
38.2 
Risk-Free interest rate
0.5 - 1.9
1.6 
Marketability discount (3)17.517.5 
Remaining life assumption (4)45.045.0 
(1)In determining the fair value of our venture capital and private equity fund investment portfolio (not measured at net asset value), we evaluate a variety of factors related to each underlying private portfolio company including, but not limited to, actual and forecasted results, cash position, recent or planned transactions and market comparable companies. Additionally, we have ongoing communication with the portfolio companies and venture capital fund managers, to determine whether there is a material change in fair value. We use company provided valuation reports, if available, to support our valuation assumptions. These factors are specific to each portfolio company and a weighted average or range of values of the unobservable inputs is not meaningful.
(2)We adjust quoted market prices of public companies, which are subject to certain sales restrictions. Sales restriction discounts generally range from 10 percent to 20 percent depending on the duration of the sales restrictions which typically range from three to six months.
(3)Our marketability discount is applied to all private company warrants to account for a general lack of liquidity due to the private nature of the associated underlying company. The quantitative measure used is based upon various option-pricing models. On a quarterly basis, a sensitivity analysis is performed on our marketability discount.
(4)We adjust the contractual remaining term of private company warrants based on our estimate of the actual remaining life, which we determine by utilizing historical data on terminations and exercises. At December 31, 2020, the weighted average contractual remaining term was 6.0 years, compared to our estimated remaining life of 2.4 years. On a quarterly basis, a sensitivity analysis is performed on our remaining life assumption.
During 2020, 2019 and 2018, we did not have any transfers between Level 3 and Level 1. All other transfers from Level 3 to Level 2 during 2020, 2019 and 2018 were due to the transfer of equity warrant assets from our private portfolio to our public portfolio (see our Level 3 reconciliation above).
Financial Instruments not Carried at Fair Value
FASB guidance over financial instruments requires that we disclose estimated fair values for our financial instruments not carried at fair value. The following fair value hierarchy table presents the estimated fair values of our financial instruments that are not carried at fair value at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
  Estimated Fair Value
(Dollars in thousands)Carrying AmountTotal
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
December 31, 2020:
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$17,674,763 $17,674,763 $17,674,763 $— $— 
Held-to-maturity securities16,592,153 17,216,871 — 17,216,871 — 
Non-marketable securities not measured at net asset value240,761 240,761 — — 240,761 
Non-marketable securities measured at net asset value 390,658 390,658 — — — 
Net commercial loans39,886,296 40,412,490 — — 40,412,490 
Net consumer loans4,847,427 4,911,451 — — 4,911,451 
FHLB and Federal Reserve Bank stock61,232 61,232 — — 61,232 
Financial liabilities:
Short-term borrowings20,553 20,553 — 20,553 — 
Non-maturity deposits (1)101,293,346 101,293,346 101,293,346 — — 
Time deposits688,461 501,853 — 501,853 — 
3.50% Senior Notes348,348 382,855 — 382,855 — 
3.125% Senior Notes
495,280 563,840 — 563,840 — 
Off-balance sheet financial assets:
Commitments to extend credit— 36,672 — — 36,672 
December 31, 2019:
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$6,781,783 $6,781,783 $6,781,783 $— $— 
Held-to-maturity securities13,842,946 14,115,272 — 14,115,272 — 
Non-marketable securities not measured at net asset value195,405 195,405 — — 195,405 
Non-marketable securities measured at net asset value 235,351 235,351 — — — 
Net commercial loans29,104,532 29,615,176 — — 29,615,176 
Net consumer loans3,755,180 3,820,804 — — 3,820,804 
FHLB and Federal Reserve Bank stock60,258 60,258 — — 60,258 
Financial liabilities:
Short-term borrowings17,430 17,430 — 17,430 — 
Non-maturity deposits (1)61,569,714 61,569,714 61,569,714 — — 
Time deposits188,093 187,980 — 187,980 — 
3.50% Senior Notes347,987 366,856 — 366,856 — 
Off-balance sheet financial assets:
Commitments to extend credit— 27,197 — — 27,197 
(1)Includes noninterest-bearing demand deposits, interest-bearing checking accounts, money market accounts and interest-bearing sweep deposits.

Investments in Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share
FASB guidance over certain fund investments requires that we disclose the fair value of funds, significant investment strategies of the investees, redemption features of the investees, restrictions on the ability to sell investments, estimate of the period of time over which the underlying assets are expected to be liquidated by the investee, and unfunded commitments related to the investments.
Our investments in debt funds and venture capital and private equity fund investments generally cannot be redeemed. Alternatively, we expect distributions, if any, to be received primarily through IPOs and M&A activity of the
underlying assets of the fund. Subject to applicable requirements under the Volcker Rule, we do not have any plans to sell any of these fund investments. If we decide to sell these investments in the future, the investee fund’s management must approve of the buyer before the sale of the investments can be completed. The fair values of the fund investments have been estimated using the net asset value per share of the investments, adjusted for any differences between our measurement date and the date of the fund investment’s net asset value by using the most recently available financial information from the investee general partner, for example September 30th, for our December 31st consolidated financial statements, adjusted for any contributions paid, distributions received from the investment, and significant fund transactions or market events during the reporting period.
The following table is a summary of the estimated fair values of these investments and remaining unfunded commitments for each major category of these investments as of December 31, 2020:
(Dollars in thousands)Carrying AmountFair ValueUnfunded Commitments
Non-marketable securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments (1)$273,823 $273,823 $12,709 
Non-marketable securities (equity method accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments (2)362,192 362,192 10,509 
Debt funds (2)5,444 5,444 211 
Other investments (2)23,023 23,023 886 
Total$664,482 $664,482 $24,315 
(1)Venture capital and private equity fund investments within non-marketable securities (fair value accounting) include investments made by our managed funds of funds and one of our direct venture funds (consolidated VIEs) and investments in venture capital and private equity fund investments (unconsolidated VIEs). Collectively, these investments in venture capital and private equity funds are primarily in U.S. and global technology and life science/healthcare companies. Included in the fair value and unfunded commitments of fund investments under fair value accounting are $66.2 million and $3.1 million, respectively, attributable to noncontrolling interests. It is estimated that we will receive distributions from the fund investments over the next 10 to 13 years, depending on the age of the funds and any potential extensions of terms of the funds.
(2)Venture capital and private equity fund investments, debt funds and other fund investments within non-marketable securities (equity method accounting) include funds that invest in or lend money to primarily U.S. and global technology and life science/healthcare companies. It is estimated that we will receive distributions from the funds over the next 5 to 8 years, depending on the age of the funds and any potential extensions of the terms of the funds.
v3.20.4
Regulatory Matters
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Banking and Thrift, Other Disclosures [Abstract]  
Regulatory Matters Regulatory Matters
SVB Financial and the Bank are subject to various regulatory capital adequacy requirements administered by the Federal Reserve Board and the DFPI. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Improvement Act of 1991 required that the federal regulatory agencies adopt regulations defining five capital categories for banks: well-capitalized, adequately capitalized, undercapitalized, significantly undercapitalized and critically undercapitalized.
In July 2013, the Federal Reserve, the FDIC and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency published final rules establishing a comprehensive capital framework for U.S. banking organizations (the “Capital Rules”), which implement the Basel III regulatory capital reforms and changes required by the Dodd-Frank Act. “Basel III” refers to the internationally agreed regulatory capital framework adopted by the Basel Committee.
There are three categories of capital under the Basel III standards; CET 1, additional Tier 1 and Tier 2. CET 1 includes common stock plus related surplus and retained earnings, less certain deductions. Additional Tier 1 capital includes qualifying preferred stock and trust preferred securities, less certain deductions. Additional Tier 1, together with CET 1, equal total Tier 1 capital. Tier 2 capital includes primarily certain qualifying unsecured subordinated debt and qualifying allowances for loan and lease losses. Tier 1 capital together with Tier 2 capital equal total capital.
Under the Capital Rules, the minimum capital ratios applicable to SVB Financial and the Bank are as follows: 4.5% CET1 capital, 6.0% Tier 1 capital, 8.0% Total capital and 4.0% Tier 1 leverage. In addition, banking organizations must meet a 2.5% CET1 risk-based capital conservation buffer requirement in order to avoid constraints on capital distributions, such as dividends and equity repurchases, and certain bonus compensation for executive officers. The severity of the constraints
would depend on the amount of the shortfall and the banking organization’s “eligible retained income” (that is, four-quarter trailing net income, net of distributions and tax effects not reflected in net income).
As of December 31, 2020, both SVB Financial and the Bank exceed the required ratios under the Capital Rules and were considered “well-capitalized” for regulatory purposes under existing capital guidelines as well. The following table presents the capital ratios for the Company and the Bank under federal regulatory guidelines, compared to the minimum regulatory capital requirements, as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
Capital Ratios Capital Amounts
(Dollars in thousands)ActualRequired Minimum (1)Well Capitalized MinimumActualRequired Minimum (1)Well Capitalized Minimum
December 31, 2020:
CET 1 risk-based capital:
SVB Financial11.04 %7.0 %N/A$7,138,006 $4,527,647 N/A
Bank10.70 7.0 6.5 6,530,167 4,271,642 $3,966,525 
Tier 1 risk-based capital:
SVB Financial11.89 8.5 6.0 7,691,936 5,497,857 3,880,840 
Bank10.70 8.5 8.0 6,530,167 5,186,994 4,881,877 
Total risk-based capital:
SVB Financial12.64 10.5 10.0 8,175,430 6,791,470 6,468,066 
Bank11.49 10.5 10.0 7,013,630 6,407,463 6,102,346 
Tier 1 leverage:
SVB Financial7.45 4.0 N/A7,691,936 4,128,596 N/A
Bank6.43 4.0 5.0 6,530,167 4,060,180 5,075,225 
December 31, 2019:
CET 1 risk-based capital:
SVB Financial12.58 %7.0 %N/A$5,857,744 $3,260,424 N/A
Bank11.12 7.0 6.5 4,949,393 3,115,151 $2,892,640 
Tier 1 risk-based capital:
SVB Financial13.43 8.5 6.0 6,257,442 3,959,086 2,794,649 
Bank11.12 8.5 8.0 4,949,393 3,782,683 3,560,172 
Total risk-based capital:
SVB Financial14.23 10.5 10.0 6,630,022 4,890,636 4,657,748 
Bank11.96 10.5 10.0 5,321,850 4,672,726 4,450,215 
Tier 1 leverage:
SVB Financial9.06 4.0 N/A6,257,442 2,763,146 N/A
Bank7.30 4.0 5.0 4,949,393 2,713,367 3,391,709 
N/A     "Well-Capitalized Minimum" CET 1 risk-based capital and Tier 1 leverage ratios are not formally defined under applicable banking regulations for bank holding companies.
(1)     The percentages represent the minimum capital ratios plus, the fully phased-in 2.5% CET1 capital conservation buffer under the Capital Rules.
v3.20.4
Segment Reporting
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Segment Reporting Segment Reporting
We have four reportable segments for management reporting purposes: Global Commercial Bank, SVB Private Bank, SVB Capital and SVB Leerink. The results of our operating segments are based on our internal management reporting process.
Our Global Commercial Bank and SVB Private Bank segments primary source of revenue is from net interest income, which is primarily the difference between interest earned on loans, net of funds transfer pricing ("FTP") and interest paid on deposits, net of FTP. Accordingly, these segments are reported using net interest income, net of FTP. FTP is an internal measurement framework designed to assess the financial impact of a financial institution’s sources and uses of funds. It is the mechanism by which an earnings credit is given for deposits raised, and an earnings charge is made for funded loans. FTP is calculated at an instrument level based on account characteristics.
We also evaluate performance based on provision for credit losses, noninterest income and noninterest expense, which are presented as components of segment operating profit or loss. In calculating each operating segment’s noninterest expense, we consider the direct costs incurred by the operating segment as well as certain allocated direct costs. As part of this review, we allocate certain corporate overhead costs to a corporate account. We do not allocate income tax expense or the provision for unfunded credit commitments (included in provision for credit losses) to our segments. Additionally, our management reporting model is predicated on average asset balances; therefore, period-end asset balances are not presented for segment reporting purposes. Changes in an individual client’s primary relationship designation have resulted, and in the future may result, in the inclusion of certain clients in different segments in different periods.
Unlike financial reporting, which benefits from the comprehensive structure provided by GAAP, our internal management reporting process is highly subjective, as there is no comprehensive, authoritative guidance for management reporting. Our management reporting process measures the performance of our operating segments based on our internal operating structure, which is subject to change from time to time, and is not necessarily comparable with similar information for other financial services companies.
For reporting purposes, SVB Financial Group has four operating segments for which we report our financial information:
•Global Commercial Bank is comprised of results from the following:
◦Our Commercial Bank products and services are provided by the Bank and its subsidiaries to commercial clients in key innovation markets. The Bank provides solutions to the financial needs of commercial clients through credit, treasury management, foreign exchange, trade finance and other services. In addition, the Bank and its subsidiaries offer a variety of investment services and solutions to its clients that enable them to effectively manage their assets. 
◦Our Global Fund Banking (formerly Private Equity) Division provides banking products and services primarily to our private equity and venture capital clients.
◦SVB Wine provides banking products and services to our premium wine industry clients, including vineyard development loans. 
◦Debt Fund Investments is comprised of our investments in certain debt funds in which we are a strategic investor.
•SVB Private Bank is the private banking and wealth management division of the Bank and provides a broad array of personal financial solutions for its clients, which are primarily executive leaders and senior investment professionals in the innovation economy. We offer a customized approach to private wealth management and private banking services including residential real property lending, stock secured loans and other lending products alongside a full suite of cash management and deposit products and online/remote banking and service capabilities. In addition, we provide real estate secured loans to eligible employees through our EHOP.
•SVB Capital is the funds management business of SVB Financial Group, which focuses primarily on venture capital investments. SVB Capital manages funds (primarily venture capital funds) on behalf of third-party limited partners and, on a more limited basis, SVB Financial Group. The SVB Capital family of funds is comprised of direct venture funds that invest in companies and funds of funds that invest in other venture capital funds. SVB Capital generates income for the Company primarily from investment returns (including carried interest allocations) and management fees.
•SVB Leerink is an investment bank specializing in the equity and convertible capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, equity research and sales and trading for growth and innovation-minded healthcare and life science companies and operates as a wholly-owned subsidiary of SVB Financial. SVB Leerink provides investment banking services across all subsectors of healthcare including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, diagnostic and life science tools, healthcare services and digital health. SVB Leerink focuses on two primary lines of business: (i) investment banking focused on providing companies with capital-raising services, financial advice
on mergers and acquisitions, sales and trading services and equity research, and (ii) sponsorship of private investment funds.
The summary financial results of our operating segments are presented along with a reconciliation to our consolidated results.
Our segment information for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)Global
Commercial
Bank (1)		SVB Private  
Bank		SVB Capital 
(1)  		SVB Leerink (1)Other Items
(2)		Total      
Year ended December 31, 2020
Net interest income$2,025,240 $77,490 $30 $578 $52,946 $2,156,284 
Provision for credit losses(165,987)(21,329)— — (32,194)(219,510)
Noninterest income605,733 3,536 225,954 495,976 508,949 1,840,148 
Noninterest expense (3)(1,019,995)(46,099)(50,589)(378,970)(539,388)(2,035,041)
Income (loss) before income tax expense (4)
$1,444,991 $13,598 $175,395 $117,584 $(9,687)$1,741,881 
Total average loans, amortized cost$31,218,037 $4,195,804 $— $— $1,852,135 $37,265,976 
Total average assets (5) (6)75,034,226 4,229,818 437,132 556,778 5,533,705 85,791,659 
Total average deposits72,127,148 2,171,556 — — 716,726 75,015,430 
Year ended December 31, 2019
Net interest income$1,850,391 $51,022 $38 $1,252 $193,898 $2,096,601 
Provision for credit losses(91,814)(2,369)— — (12,233)(106,416)
Noninterest income637,922 3,366 122,394 264,516 193,281 1,221,479 
Noninterest expense (3)(874,854)(40,151)(30,798)(252,678)(402,781)(1,601,262)
Income (loss) before income tax expense (4)
$1,521,645 $11,868 $91,634 $13,090 $(27,835)$1,610,402 
Total average loans, amortized cost$26,031,284 $3,341,188 $— $— $543,735 $29,916,207 
Total average assets (5) (6)56,043,321 3,371,052 405,152 397,650 2,994,455 63,211,630 
Total average deposits53,053,665 1,524,232 — — 479,053 55,056,950 
Year ended December 31, 2018
Net interest income$1,623,488 $64,902 $23 $— $205,575 $1,893,988 
Provision for credit losses(80,953)(3,339)— — (3,578)(87,870)
Noninterest income (7)520,302 2,281 101,181 — 121,220 744,984 
Noninterest expense (3)(793,159)(25,064)(22,792)— (347,178)(1,188,193)
Income (loss) before income tax expense (4)
$1,269,678 $38,780 $78,412 $— $(23,961)$1,362,909 
Total average loans, amortized cost$22,354,305 $2,850,271 $— $— $425,944 $25,630,520 
Total average assets (5) (8)48,854,416 2,871,743 380,543 — 3,122,358 55,229,060 
Total average deposits46,039,570 1,502,308 — — 533,466 48,075,344 
(1)Global Commercial Bank’s, SVB Capital’s and SVB Leerink's components of net interest income, noninterest income, noninterest expense and total average assets are shown net of noncontrolling interests for all periods presented. Noncontrolling interest is included within "Other Items."
(2)The "Other Items" column reflects the adjustments necessary to reconcile the results of the operating segments to the consolidated financial statements prepared in conformity with GAAP. Net interest income consists primarily of interest earned from our fixed income investment portfolio, net of FTP. Noninterest income consists primarily of gains or losses on equity warrant assets, gains or losses on the sale of AFS securities and gains or losses on equity securities from exercised warrant assets. Noninterest expense consists primarily of expenses associated with corporate support functions such as finance, human resources, marketing, legal and other expenses.
(3)The Global Commercial Bank segment includes direct depreciation and amortization of $25.3 million, $20.4 million and $21.8 million for 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
(4)The internal reporting model used by management to assess segment performance does not calculate income tax expense by segment. Our effective tax rate is a reasonable approximation of the segment rates.
(5)Total average assets equal the greater of total average assets or the sum of total average liabilities and total average stockholders’ equity for each segment to reconcile the results to the consolidated financial statements prepared in conformity with GAAP.
(6)Included in the total average assets for SVB Leerink is goodwill of $137.8 million for both the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
(7)For the year ended December 31, 2018, amounts of client investment fees included in the line item "Noninterest Income" previously reported as "Other Items" have been correctly allocated to our reportable segment "Global Commercial Bank" to properly reflect the source of such revenue. The correction of this immaterial error had no impact on the "Total" amount of noninterest income.
(8)For the year ended December 31, 2018, amounts for average assets previously reported as "Other Items" have been correctly allocated to the reportable segments "Global Commercial Bank" and “SVB Private Bank” to properly reflect the greater of total average assets or the sum of total average liabilities and total average stockholders’ equity for “Global Commercial Bank” and “SVB Private Bank.” The correction of this immaterial error had no impact on the "Total" amount of average assets.
v3.20.4
Parent Company Only Condensed Financial Information
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]  
Parent Company Only Condensed Financial Information Parent Company Only Condensed Financial Information
The condensed balance sheets of SVB Financial at December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the related condensed statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for 2020, 2019 and 2018, are presented below:
Condensed Balance Sheets
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$670,738 $800,926 
Investment securities666,860 474,842 
Loans, amortized cost682 15,245 
Lease right-of-use assets99,363 71,847 
Other assets260,331 214,167 
Investment in subsidiaries:
Bank subsidiary7,068,964 5,034,095 
Nonbank subsidiaries666,997 432,073 
Total assets$9,433,935 $7,043,195 
Liabilities and SVBFG stockholders’ equity:
3.125% Senior Notes$495,280 $— 
3.50% Senior Notes348,348 347,987 
Lease liabilities134,607 87,999 
Other liabilities236,000 136,903 
Total liabilities$1,214,235 $572,889 
SVBFG stockholders’ equity8,219,700 6,470,306 
Total liabilities and SVBFG stockholders’ equity$9,433,935 $7,043,195 
Condensed Statements of Income
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Interest income$2,849 $4,473 $3,307 
Interest expense(21,565)(31,666)(32,037)
Dividend income from bank subsidiary 50,000 733,000 140,000 
Gains on equity warrant assets, net226,942 138,078 89,142 
Gains on investment securities, net157,594 45,345 13,546 
Fund management fees and other noninterest income62,046 21,567 26,388 
General and administrative expenses(120,863)(94,712)(70,976)
Income tax expense(145,790)(40,218)(14,383)
Income before net income of subsidiaries211,213 775,867 154,987 
Equity in undistributed net income of bank subsidiary776,243 303,618 793,641 
Equity in undistributed net income of nonbank subsidiaries220,912 57,371 25,212 
Net income before preferred stock dividend$1,208,368 $1,136,856 $973,840 
Preferred stock dividends(17,151)— — 
Net income available to common stockholders$1,191,217 $1,136,856 $973,840 

Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Net income before preferred stock dividend $1,208,368 $1,136,856 $973,840 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation gains (losses)11,846 2,319 (4,107)
Changes in unrealized holding gains and losses on AFS securities70 2,310 120 
Changes in fair value on bank cash flow hedges, net of reclassification adjustments in bank net income131,403 (2,130)— 
Equity in other comprehensive income (loss) of bank and nonbank subsidiaries 394,753 136,066 (19,171)
Reclassifications to retained earnings for the adoption of new accounting guidance— — (29,490)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax538,072 138,565 (52,648)
Total comprehensive income$1,746,440 $1,275,421 $921,192 
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income before preferred stock dividend$1,208,368 $1,136,856 $973,840 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Gains on equity warrant assets, net(226,942)(138,078)(89,142)
Gains on investment securities, net(157,594)(45,345)(13,546)
Gains on derivatives, net(30,018)— — 
Distributions of earnings from investment securities65,237 49,776 47,596 
Net income of bank subsidiary(826,243)(1,036,618)(933,641)
Net income on nonbank subsidiaries(220,912)(57,371)(25,212)
Cash dividends from bank subsidiary50,000 733,000 140,000 
Amortization of share-based compensation83,986 66,815 45,675 
Decrease in other assets17,189 27,205 51,169 
Increase in other liabilities98,209 21,391 21,619 
Other, net13,206 8,084 (31,024)
Net cash provided by operating activities74,486 765,715 187,334 
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net decrease in investment securities from purchases, sales and maturities122,823 128,635 73,742 
Net decrease (increase) in loans14,563 (15,245)— 
Increase in investment in bank subsidiary(68,630)(42,952)(31,292)
Capital infusion in bank subsidiary(700,000)— — 
Decrease (increase) in investment in nonbank subsidiaries4,271 23,275 (5,323)
Business acquisitions(26,700)(265,601)— 
Net cash (used for) provided by investing activities(653,673)(171,888)37,127 
Cash flows from financing activities:
Principal payments of long-term debt— (358,395)— 
Proceeds from issuance of 3.125% Senior Notes495,024 — — 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, ESPP and ESOP 31,146 24,818 18,387 
Net proceeds from the issuance of preferred stock— 340,138 — 
Payment of preferred stock dividends(17,151)— — 
Common stock repurchase(60,020)(352,511)(147,123)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities448,999 (345,950)(128,736)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents(130,188)247,877 95,725 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period800,926 553,049 457,324 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$670,738 $800,926 $553,049 
v3.20.4
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]  
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data
Our supplemental consolidated financial information for each three month period in 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
 Three months ended
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)March 31,June 30,September 30,December 31,
2020:
Interest income$567,402 $523,523 $543,127 $607,558 
Interest expense43,265 10,596 15,387 16,078 
Net interest income524,137 512,927 527,740 591,480 
Provision for (reduction) credit losses243,480 66,481 (52,018)(38,433)
Noninterest income301,934 368,848 547,583 621,783 
Noninterest expense399,585 479,636 491,021 664,799 
Income before income tax expense183,006 335,658 636,320 586,897 
Income tax expense49,357 87,869 162,265 148,096 
Net income before noncontrolling interests133,649 247,789 474,055 438,801 
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests1,973 (14,260)(27,748)(45,891)
Preferred stock dividends(3,369)(4,594)(4,594)(4,594)
Net income available to common stockholders$132,253 $228,935 $441,713 $388,316 
Earnings per common share—basic$2.56 $4.44 $8.53 $7.49 
Earnings per common share—diluted2.55 4.42 8.47 7.40 
2019:
Interest income$551,014 $585,767 $583,892 $588,735 
Interest expense38,128 56,364 63,248 55,067 
Net interest income512,886 529,403 520,644 533,668 
Provision for credit losses28,551 23,946 36,536 17,383 
Noninterest income280,376 333,750 294,009 313,344 
Noninterest expense365,664 383,522 391,324 460,752 
Income before income tax expense399,047 455,685 386,793 368,877 
Income tax expense107,435 119,114 105,075 94,061 
Net income before noncontrolling interests291,612 336,571 281,718 274,816 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(2,880)(18,584)(14,437)(11,960)
Net income available to common stockholders$288,732 $317,987 $267,281 $262,856 
Earnings per common share—basic$5.49 $6.12 $5.19 $5.10 
Earnings per common share—diluted5.44 6.08 5.15 5.06 
v3.20.4
Legal Matters
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
Legal Matters Legal Matters
Certain lawsuits and claims arising in the ordinary course of business have been filed or are pending against us and/or our affiliates, and we may from time to time be involved in other legal or regulatory proceedings. In accordance with applicable accounting guidance, we establish accruals for all such matters, including expected settlements, when we believe it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable. When a loss contingency is not both probable and estimable, we do not establish an accrual. Any such loss estimates are inherently uncertain, based on currently available information and are subject to management’s judgment and various assumptions. Due to the inherent subjectivity of these estimates and unpredictability of outcomes of legal proceedings, any amounts accrued may not represent the ultimate resolution of such matters.
To the extent we believe any potential loss relating to such matters may have a material impact on our liquidity, consolidated financial position, results of operations and/or our business as a whole and is reasonably possible but not probable, we aim to disclose information relating to such potential loss. We also aim to disclose information relating to any
material potential loss that is probable but not reasonably estimable. In such cases, where reasonably practicable, we aim to provide an estimate of loss or range of potential loss. No disclosures are generally made for any loss contingencies that are deemed to be remote.
Based upon information available to us, our review of lawsuits and claims filed or pending against us to date and consultation with our outside legal counsel, we have not recognized a material liability for any such matters, nor do we currently expect that these matters will result in a material liability to the Company. However, the outcome of litigation and other legal and regulatory matters is inherently uncertain, and it is possible that one or more of such matters currently pending or threatened could have an unanticipated material adverse effect on our liquidity, consolidated financial position, results of operations and/or our business as a whole, in the future.
v3.20.4
Subsequent Events
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Subsequent Events [Abstract]  
Subsequent Events Subsequent Events
Merger Agreement
On January 4, 2021, the Company entered into a merger agreement with Boston Private (NASDAQ: BPFH) for total consideration of approximately $900 million, based on SIVB's closing price as of December 31, 2020. The merger consideration consists of $2.10 in cash and 0.0228 shares of SIVB common stock for each share of Boston Private common stock. Due to the fixed exchange ratio, the value of the consideration will change based on SIVB's stock price. The merger is expected to close in mid-2021 and is subject to regulatory approval.
Series B Preferred Stock and Senior Notes Offerings
On February 2, 2021, the Company issued depositary shares representing a 1/100th ownership interest in 750,000 shares of Series B Preferred Stock with $0.001 par value and liquidation preferences of $100,000 per share, or $1,000 per depositary share. Dividends, if approved and declared by the Board of Directors, are payable quarterly, in arrears, at a rate per annum equal to (i) 4.10 percent from the original issue date to, but excluding, February 15, 2031 and (ii) for the February 15, 2031 dividend date and during each subsequent ten year period, the ten-year treasury rate (calculated three business days prior to each reset date as the five day average of the yields on actively traded U.S. treasury securities adjusted to constant maturity, for ten-year maturities) plus 3.064 percent.
Concurrently with the offering of the Series B Preferred Stock, SVB Financial issued $500 million of 1.800% Senior Notes due February 2031, with interest payments starting August 2, 2021, and payable every February 2nd and August 2nd. The notes will be senior unsecured obligations of SVB Financial Group and will rank equally with all of our other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness.
For both the Series B Preferred Stock and Senior Notes, we intend to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes, which may include working capital, capital investments and expenditures, supporting capital ratios at the Bank and capitalizing other operating subsidiaries allowing continued support for Bank clients.
Potential Fraudulent Client Activity
The Company recently became aware of potentially fraudulent activity conducted by a client of the Bank in connection with a loan transaction funded in early February 2021. We are currently investigating this incident to determine our potential credit exposure, which is currently estimated to be up to $70 million
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Use of Estimates and Assumptions
Use of Estimates and Assumptions
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates may change as new information is obtained. Items that are subject to such estimates include: 1) measurements of fair value, which include the valuation of non-marketable and other equity securities and the valuation of equity warrant assets, 2) income taxes, and 3) the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses for loans and the allowance for credit losses for unfunded credit commitments. The following discussion of significant accounting policies includes further details regarding these estimates.
Principles of Consolidation and Presentation
Principles of Consolidation and Presentation
Our consolidated financial statements include the accounts of SVB Financial Group and consolidated entities. We consolidate voting entities in which we have control through voting interests or entities through which we have a controlling financial interest in a variable interest entity ("VIE"). We determine whether we have a controlling financial interest in a VIE by determining if we have (a) the power to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, (b) the obligation to absorb the expected losses or (c) the right to receive the expected returns of the entity. Generally, we have significant variable interests if our commitments to a limited partnership investment represent a significant amount of the total commitments to the entity. We also evaluate the impact of related parties on our determination of variable interests in our consolidation conclusions. We consolidate VIEs in which we are the primary beneficiary based on a controlling financial interest. If we are not the primary beneficiary of a VIE, we record our pro-rata interests based on our ownership percentage.
VIEs are entities where investors lack sufficient equity at risk for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support or equity investors and, as a group, lack one of the following characteristics: (a) the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance, (b) the obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity or (c) the right to receive the expected returns of the entity. We assess VIEs to determine if we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE. A primary beneficiary is defined as a variable interest holder that has a controlling financial interest. A controlling financial interest requires both: (a) the power to direct the activities that most significantly
impact the VIEs economic performance, and (b) the obligation to absorb losses or receive benefits of a VIE that could potentially be significant to a VIE. Under this analysis, we also evaluate kick-out rights and other participating rights, which could provide us a controlling financial interest. The primary beneficiary of a VIE is required to consolidate the VIE.
We also evaluate fees paid to managers of our limited partnership investments. We exclude those fee arrangements that are not deemed to be variable interests from the analysis of our interests in our investments in VIEs and the determination of a primary beneficiary, if any. Fee arrangements based on terms that are customary and commensurate with the services provided are deemed not to be variable interests and are, therefore, excluded.
All significant intercompany accounts and transactions with consolidated entities have been eliminated. We have not provided financial or other support during the periods presented to any VIE that we were not previously contractually required to provide.
Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, cash balances due from banks, interest-earning deposits, Federal Reserve deposits, federal funds sold, securities purchased under agreements to resell and other short-term investment securities. For the consolidated statements of cash flows, we consider cash equivalents to be investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash, so near to their maturity that they present an insignificant risk of change in fair value due to changes in market interest rates, and purchased in conjunction with our cash management activities.
Available-for-Sale and Held-to-Maturity Securities
Available-for-Sale Securities and the Allowance for Credit Losses on Available-for-Sale Securities
Our available-for-sale securities portfolio is a fixed income investment portfolio that is managed to earn an appropriate portfolio yield over the long-term while maintaining sufficient liquidity and credit diversification and meeting our asset/liability management objectives. Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, net of applicable taxes, are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income, which is a separate component of SVBFG's stockholders' equity, until realized.
We analyze available-for-sale securities for impairment related to credit losses each quarter. Market valuations represent the current fair value of a security at a specified point in time and incorporates the risk of timing of interest due and the return of principal over the contractual life of each security. Gains and losses on securities are realized when there is a sale of the security prior to maturity. A credit impairment is recognized through a valuation allowance against the security with an offset through earnings; the allowance is limited to the amount that fair value, calculated as the present value of expected future cash flow discounted at the security’s effective interest rate, is less than the amortized cost basis. We separate the amount of the impairment related to credit losses, if any, and the amount due to all other factors. The credit loss component is recognized in earnings and recorded as an allowance for credit losses for AFS securities.
We consider numerous factors in determining whether a credit loss exists and the period over which the debt security is expected to recover. The following list is not meant to be all inclusive. All of the following factors are considered:
•The length of time and the extent to which the fair value has been less than the amortized cost basis (severity and duration);
•Adverse conditions specifically related to the security, an industry or geographic area; for example, changes in the financial condition of the issuer of the security, or in the case of an asset-backed debt security, changes in the financial condition of the underlying loan obligors. Examples of those changes include any of the following:
◦Changes in technology;
◦The discontinuance of a segment of the business that may affect the future earnings potential of the issuer or underlying loan obligors of the security; and
◦Changes in the quality of the credit enhancement.
•The historical and implied volatility of the fair value of the security;
•The payment structure of the debt security and the likelihood of the issuer being able to make payments that increase in the future;
•Failure of the issuer of the security to make scheduled interest or principal payments;
•Any changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency; and
•Recoveries or additional declines in fair value after the balance sheet date.
In accordance with ASC 310-20, Receivables-Nonrefundable Fees and Other Costs, we use estimates of future principal prepayments, provided by third-party market-data vendors, in addition to actual principal prepayment experience to calculate the constant effective yield necessary to apply the effective interest method in the amortization of purchase discounts or premiums on mortgage-backed securities and fixed rate collateralized mortgage obligations. The accretion and amortization of discounts and premiums, respectively, are included in interest income over the contractual terms of the underlying securities replicating the effective interest method.
Held-to-Maturity Securities and the Allowance for Credit Losses on Held-to-Maturity Securities
Debt securities purchased with the positive intent and ability to hold to its maturity are classified as held-to-maturity securities and are recorded at amortized cost, net of any allowance for credit losses.
Effective January 1, 2020, we measure expected credit losses ("ECL") on held-to-maturity securities on a collective basis by major security type and standard credit rating. Our held-to-maturity securities portfolio, with the exception of our municipal bond portfolio, are either explicitly or implicitly guaranteed by the U.S. government, are highly rated by major rating agencies and have a long history of no credit losses. With respect to these securities, we consider the risk of credit loss to be zero and, therefore, we do not record an ECL. Our municipal bond portfolio primarily consists of highly rated bonds and currently carry ratings no lower than Aa2. The estimate of ECL on our municipal bond portfolio considers historical credit loss information and severity of loss in the event of default and leverages external data adjusted for current conditions. A reasonable and supportable forecast period of one year is applied to our municipal bond portfolio, with immediate reversion to long-term average historical loss rates when remaining contractual lives of securities exceed one year. We do not estimate ECL on accrued interest receivable ("AIR") from held-to-maturity securities as AIR is reversed or written off when the full collection of the AIR related to a security becomes doubtful. AIR from held-to-maturity securities totaled $55.0 million at December 31, 2020 and $45.2 million at December 31, 2019 and is excluded from the amortized cost disclosures within our HTM security disclosures in Note 8—“Investment Securities” as it is included and reported separately within "Accrued interest receivable and other assets" in our consolidated balance sheets.
Expected credit loss on municipal bonds that do not share common risk characteristics with our collective portfolio are individually measured based on net realizable value, or the difference between the discounted value of the expected future cash flows and the recorded amortized cost basis of the security.
Prior to the adoption of CECL, we applied the other-than-temporary impairment standards of ASC 320, Investment-Debt and Equity Securities, for our held-to-maturity securities. For periods prior to January 1, 2020, we separated the amount of the other-than-temporary impairment, if any, into the amount that is credit related (credit loss component) and the amount due to all other factors. The credit loss component is recognized in earnings and is the difference between a security's amortized cost basis and the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the security's effective interest rate. The amount due to all other factors is recognized in other comprehensive income.
Transfers of investment securities into the held-to-maturity category from the available-for-sale category are made at fair value at the date of transfer. The net unrealized gains, net of tax, are retained in other comprehensive income, and the carrying value of the held-to-maturity securities are amortized over the life of the securities in a manner consistent with the amortization of a premium or discount.
Non-Marketable and Other Securities
Non-Marketable and Other Equity Securities
Non-marketable and other equity securities include investments in venture capital and private equity funds, SPD-SVB, debt funds, private and public portfolio companies, including public equity securities held as a result of equity warrant assets exercised, and investments in qualified affordable housing projects. A majority of these investments are managed through our SVB Capital funds business in funds of funds and direct venture funds. Our accounting for investments in non-marketable and other equity securities depends on several factors, including the level of ownership, power to control and the legal structure of the subsidiary making the investment. As further described below, we base our accounting for such securities on: (i) fair value accounting, (ii) measurement alternative for other investments without a readily determinable fair value, (iii) equity method accounting and (iv) the proportional amortization method which is used only for qualified affordable housing projects.
Fair Value Accounting Fair Value Accounting Our managed funds are investment companies under the AICPA Audit and Accounting Guide for Investment Companies (codified in ASC 946) and accordingly, these funds report their investments at estimated fair value, with unrealized gains and losses resulting from changes in fair value reflected as investment gains or losses in our consolidated statements of income. Our non-marketable and other equity securities recorded pursuant to fair value accounting consist of our investments through our managed funds of funds, which make investments in venture capital and private equity funds. The general partner interests of these funds are controlled, and in some cases, owned by SVB Financial. The limited partners of these funds do not have substantive participating or kick-out rights. Therefore, these funds are consolidated and any gains or losses resulting from changes in the estimated fair value of the investments are recorded as investment gains or losses in our consolidated net income.
Under fair value accounting, investments are carried at their estimated fair value based on financial information obtained as the general partner of the fund or obtained from the funds' respective general partner. For direct private company investments, valuations are based upon consideration of a range of factors including, but not limited to, the price at which the investment was acquired, the term and nature of the investment, local market conditions, values for comparable securities, current and projected operating performance, exit strategies and financing transactions subsequent to the acquisition of the investment. For direct equity investments in public companies, valuations are based on quoted market prices less a discount if the securities are subject to certain sales restrictions. Sales restriction discounts generally range from ten to twenty depending on the sale restrictions which typically range from three to six months. The valuation of non-marketable securities in shares of private company capital stock and the valuation of other securities in shares of public company stock with certain sales restrictions is subject to significant judgment. The inherent uncertainty in the process of valuing securities for which a ready market does not exist may cause our estimated values of these securities to differ significantly from the values that would have been derived had a ready market for the securities existed, and those differences could be material.
For our fund investments, we utilize the net asset value as obtained from the general partners of the fund investments as the funds do not have a readily determinable fair value. The general partners of our fund investments prepare their financial statements using guidance consistent with fair value accounting. We account for differences between our measurement date and the date of the fund investment's net asset value by using the most recent available financial information from the investee general partner, for example September 30th, for our December 31st consolidated financial statements. We adjust the value of our investments for any contributions paid, distributions received from the investment and known significant fund transactions or market events about which we are aware through information provided by the fund managers or from publicly available transaction data during the reporting period.
Gains or losses resulting from changes in the estimated fair value of the investments and from distributions received are recorded as gains on investment securities, net, a component of noninterest income. The portion of any investment gains or losses attributable to the limited partners is reflected as net income attributable to noncontrolling interests and adjusts our net income to reflect its percentage ownership.
Other Investments without a Readily Determinable Fair Value
Other Investments without a Readily Determinable Fair Value
Our direct investments in private companies do not have a readily determinable fair value. We measure these investments at cost less impairment, if any, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments from the same issuer. Such changes are recognized through earnings. We consider a range of factors when adjusting the fair value of these investments, including, but not limited to, the term and nature of the investment, local market conditions, values for comparable securities, current and projected operating performance, financing transactions subsequent to the acquisition of the investment and a discount for certain investments that have lock-up restrictions or other features that indicate a discount to fair value is warranted.
Equity Method
Equity Method
Our equity method non-marketable securities consist of investments in venture capital and private equity funds, privately-held companies, debt funds, and joint ventures. Our equity method non-marketable securities and related accounting policies are described as follows:
•Equity securities and investments in limited partnerships, such as preferred or common stock in privately-held companies in which we hold a voting interest of at least 20 percent, or in which we have the ability to exercise significant influence over the investees' operating and financial policies through voting interests, board involvement or other influence are accounted for under the equity method,
•Investments in limited partnerships in which we hold voting interests of more than 5 percent, or in which we have the ability to exercise significant influence over the partnerships' operating and financial policies, are accounted for using the equity method, and
•Our SPD-SVB (the Bank's joint venture bank in China) partnership, for which we have 50 percent ownership, is accounted for under the equity method.
We recognize our proportionate share of the results of operations of these equity method investees in our results of operations, based on the most current financial information available from the investee. We review our investments accounted for under the equity method at least quarterly for possible other-than-temporary impairment. Our review typically includes an analysis of facts and circumstances for each investment, the expectations of the investment's future cash flows and capital needs, variability of its business and the company's exit strategy. For our fund investments, we utilize the net asset value per share as provided by the general partners of the fund investments. We account for differences between our measurement date and the date of the fund investment's net asset value by using the most recent available financial information from the investee general partner, for example September 30th, for our December 31st consolidated financial statements. We adjust the value of our investments for any contributions paid, distributions received from the investment, and known significant fund transactions or market events about which we are aware through information provided by the fund managers or from publicly available transaction data during the reporting period.
We reduce our investment value when we consider declines in value to be other-than-temporary and recognize the estimated loss as a loss on investment securities, a component of noninterest income.
Proportional Amortization Method Proportional Amortization MethodIn order to fulfill our responsibilities under the Community Reinvestment Act, we invest as a limited partner in low income housing partnerships that operate qualified affordable housing projects and generate tax benefits, including federal low income housing tax credits, for investors. The partnerships are deemed to be VIEs because they do not have sufficient equity investment at risk and are structured with non-substantive voting rights. We are not the primary beneficiary of the VIEs and do not consolidate them. Our investments in low income housing partnerships are recorded in non-marketable and other equity securities within our investment securities portfolio on the consolidated balance sheet. As a practical expedient, we amortize the investment in proportion to the allocated tax benefits under the proportional amortization method of accounting and present such benefits net of investment amortization in income tax expense.
Loans Loans Loans are reported at amortized cost which consists of the principal amount outstanding, net of unearned loan fees. Unearned loan fees reflect unamortized deferred loan origination and commitment fees net of unamortized deferred loan origination costs. In addition to cash loan fees, we often obtain equity warrant assets that give us an option to purchase a position in a client company's stock in consideration for providing credit facilities. The grant date fair values of these equity warrant assets are deemed to be loan fees and are deferred as unearned income and recognized as an adjustment of loan yield through loan interest income. The net amount of unearned loan fees is amortized into loan interest income over the contractual terms of the underlying loans and commitments using the constant effective yield method, adjusted for actual loan prepayment experience, or the straight-line method, as applicable.
Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans
Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans
The allowance for credit losses for loans considers credit risk and is adjusted by a provision for ECL charged to expense and reduced by the charge-off of loan amounts, net of recoveries. Our allowance for credit losses is an estimate of expected losses inherent with the Company's existing loans at the balance sheet date. Determining the appropriateness of the allowance is complex and requires judgment by management about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.
Portfolio Segments and Risk-Based Segments
The process to estimate the ECL on loans involves procedures to appropriately consider the unique characteristics of our six loan portfolio segments. Our six portfolio segments are determined by using the following risk dimensions: (i) underwriting methodology, (ii) industry niche and (iii) life stage. The six portfolio segments are further disaggregated into 11 classes of financing receivable, or risk-based segments, and represents the level at which credit risk is monitored. Credit quality is assessed and monitored by evaluating various attributes and the results of those evaluations are utilized in underwriting new loans and in our process to estimate ECL. For further information refer to Note 9—“Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans and Unfunded Credit Commitments.” The following provides additional information regarding our six portfolio segments and the additional disaggregation of our 11 risk-based segments:
Global Fund Banking
The vast majority of our Global Fund Banking (formerly Private Equity/Venture Capital) portfolio segment consists of capital call lines of credit, the repayment of which is dependent on the payment of capital calls by the underlying limited partner investors in the funds managed by certain private equity and venture capital firms. These facilities are generally governed by meaningful financial covenants oriented towards ensuring that the funds' remaining callable capital is sufficient to repay the loan, and larger commitments (typically provided to larger private equity funds) are often secured by an assignment of the general partner's right to call capital from the fund's limited partner investors.
Investor Dependent - Accelerator (Early-Stage) and Growth (Mid-Stage and Later-Stage)
Investor Dependent loans are comprised of two portfolio segments: (i) Accelerator, which is comprised of Early-Stage clients, and (ii) Growth, which is comprised of Mid-Stage and Later-Stage clients. Our Investor Dependent loans are made primarily to technology and life science/healthcare companies. Investor Dependent loans typically have modest or negative cash flows and no established record of profitable operations. Repayment of these loans may be dependent upon receipt by borrowers of additional equity financing from venture capital firms or others, or in some cases, a successful sale to a third party or an IPO. Venture capital firms may provide financing selectively, at reduced amounts, or on less favorable terms, which may have an adverse effect on our borrowers' ability to repay their loans to us. When repayment is dependent upon the next round of venture investment and there is an indication that further investment is unlikely or will not occur, it is often likely that the company would need to be sold to repay the debt in full. If reasonable efforts have not yielded a likely buyer willing to repay all debt at the close of the sale or on commercially viable terms, the account will most likely be deemed to be non-performing or charged-off.
Our Accelerator, or Early-Stage, portfolio segment consists of pre-revenue, development-stage companies and companies that are in the early phases of commercialization, with revenues of up to $5 million. Our Growth portfolio segment is disaggregated into two risk-based segments for disclosure purposes; Mid-Stage and Later-Stage. Mid-Stage companies consist of growth-stage enterprises with revenues of between $5 million and $15 million or, in the case of biotechnology, pre-revenue clinical-stage companies. Later-Stage consists of companies with revenues of $15 million or more. This disaggregation of our Investor Dependent loans is based in part on the materially different historical loss rate we have experienced with each risk-based segment, with historical loss rates being the highest in the Early-Stage portfolio segment, and declining in the Mid-Stage and Later-Stage risk-based segments, as a function of the relatively higher enterprise value and asset coverage that is created as a company progresses through the various stages of development.
Cash Flow and Balance Sheet Dependent
Our Cash Flow and Balance Sheet Dependent portfolio segment is disaggregated into Cash Flow Dependent and Balance Sheet Dependent loans. Additionally, our Cash Flow Dependent loans are disaggregated into two risk-based segments for disclosure purposes: (i) Sponsor Led Buyout and (ii) Other. Our Cash Flow Dependent loans are made primarily to technology and life science/healthcare companies and require the borrower to maintain cash flow from operations that is sufficient to service all debt. Borrowers must demonstrate normalized cash flow in excess of all fixed charges associated with operating the business. Sponsor Led Buyout loans are typically used to assist a select group of experienced private equity sponsors with the acquisition of businesses, are larger in size, and repayment is generally dependent upon the cash flows of the acquired company. The acquired companies are typically established, later-stage businesses of scale and characterized by reasonable levels of leverage with loan structures that include meaningful financial covenants. The sponsor's equity contribution is often 50 percent or more of the acquisition price.
Balance Sheet Dependent loans are made primarily to technology and life science/healthcare companies, which include asset-based loans, and are structured to require constant current asset coverage (i.e., cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable and, to a much lesser extent, inventory) in an amount that exceeds the outstanding debt. These loans are generally made to companies in our Growth and Corporate Finance practices. The repayment of these arrangements
is dependent on the financial condition, and payment ability, of third parties with whom our clients do business. As a result of the adoption of CECL and in connection with the revised approach to portfolio disaggregation discussed above, certain loans that were previously considered to be Balance Sheet Dependent have been reclassified as Investor Dependent - Later-Stage.
Private Bank
Our Private Bank clients are primarily private equity/venture capital professionals and executives in the innovation companies they support. We offer a customized suite of private banking services, including mortgages, home equity lines of credit, restricted and private stock loans, capital call lines of credit, lines of credit against liquid assets and other secured and unsecured lending products, as well as cash and wealth management services. In addition, we provide owner occupied commercial mortgages to Private Bank clients and real estate secured loans to eligible employees through our EHOP.
Premium Wine and Other
Our Premium Wine and Other portfolio segment consists of two risk-based segments for disclosure purposes: (i) Premium Wine and (ii) Other. Our Premium Wine clients primarily consist of premium wine producers, vineyards and wine industry or hospitality related businesses across the Western United States, primarily in California's Napa Valley, Sonoma County and Central Coast regions, as well as the Pacific Northwest. Our Other risk-based segment primarily includes our community development loans made as part of our responsibilities under the Community Reinvestment Act.
SBA Loans
SBA loans are included across all of our six portfolio segments and are separately disclosed as a single risk-based segment. We participated in the SBA's Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") to support small businesses across the United States. Under this program, the SBA provides a guarantee to banks making unsecured term loans of up to $10 million for qualified initial borrowers, and up to $2 million for second-time borrowers, as provided by the CARES Act, the Economic Aid Act, and related regulations and guidance. The ability to disburse loans under the PPP was extended to March 31, 2021 after the enactment of the Economic Aid Act and we have also begun accepting forgiveness applications from clients, whereby clients apply for loans to be forgiven (paid off) by the SBA. Loans funded under this program are primarily made to clients in the technology, life science/healthcare, premium wine and energy resource industries. While the recipients were located across the United States, more than half were made to clients that applied from the western United States. 
We maintain a systematic process for the evaluation of individual loans and portfolio segments for inherent risk of estimated credit losses for loans. At the time of approval, each loan in our portfolio is assigned a credit risk rating. Credit risk ratings are assigned on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing loans with a low risk of nonpayment, 9 representing loans with the highest risk of nonpayment and 10 representing loans which have been charged-off. The credit risk ratings for each loan are monitored and updated on an ongoing basis. This credit risk rating process includes, but is not limited to, consideration of such factors as payment status, the financial condition and operating performance of the borrower, borrower compliance with loan covenants, underlying collateral values and performance trends, the degree of access to additional capital, the presence of credit enhancements such as third party guarantees (where applicable), the degree to which the borrower is sensitive to external factors and the depth and experience of the borrower's management team. Our policies require a committee of senior management to review, at least quarterly, credit relationships with a credit risk rating of 5 through 9 that exceed specific dollar values.
Expected Credit Loss Measurement
The methodology for estimating the amount of ECL reported in the allowance for credit losses is the sum of two main components: (1) ECL assessed on a collective basis for pools of loans that share similar risk characteristics which includes a qualitative adjustment based on management’s assessment of the risks that may lead to a future loan loss experience different from our historical loan loss experience and (2) ECL assessed for individual loans that do not share similar risk characteristics with other loans. We do not estimate ECL on AIR on loans as AIR is reversed or written off when the full collection of the AIR related to a loan becomes doubtful, which is when loans are placed on nonaccrual status. AIR on loans totaled $126.4 million at December 31, 2020 and $119.1 million at December 31, 2019 and is excluded from the amortized cost disclosures in Note 9—“Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans and Unfunded Credit Commitments”, as it is included and reported separately within "Accrued interest receivable and other assets" in our consolidated balance sheets.
While the evaluation process of our allowance for credit losses on loans uses historical and other objective information, the classification of loans and the estimate of the allowance for credit losses for loans rely on the judgment and experience of
our management. A committee comprised of senior management evaluates the appropriateness of the allowance for credit losses for loans, which includes review of loan portfolio segmentation, quantitative models, internal and external data inputs, economic forecasts, credit risk ratings and qualitative adjustments.
Loans That Share Similar Risk Characteristics with Other Loans
We derive an estimated ECL assumption from a non-discounted cash flow approach based on our portfolio segments discussed above. This approach incorporates a calculation of three predictive metrics: (1) probability of default ("PD"), (2) loss given default ("LGD") and (3) exposure at default ("EAD"), over the estimated life of the exposure. PD and LGD assumptions are developed based on quantitative models and inherent risk of credit loss, both of which involve significant judgment. Renewals and extensions within our control are not considered in the estimated contractual term of a loan. However, we include potential extensions if management has a reasonable expectation that we will execute a TDR with the borrower. The quantitative models are based on historical credit loss experience, adjusted for probability-weighted economic scenarios. These scenarios are used to support a reasonable and supportable forecast period of three years for all portfolio segments. To the extent the remaining contractual lives of loans in the portfolio extend beyond this three-year period, we revert to historical averages using an autoregressive method of mean reversion that will continue to gradually trend towards the mean historical loss over the remaining contractual lives of loans, adjusted for prepayments. The macroeconomic scenarios are reviewed on a quarterly basis.    
We also apply a qualitative factor adjustment to the results obtained through our quantitative ECL models to consider model imprecision, emerging risk assessments, trends and other subjective factors that may not be adequately represented in quantitative ECL models. These adjustments to historical loss information are for asset specific risk characteristics, and also reflect our assessment of the extent that current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts differ from conditions that existed during the period over which historical information was evaluated. These adjustments are aggregated to become our qualitative allocation. Based on our qualitative assessment estimate of changing risks in the lending environment, the qualitative allocation may vary significantly from period to period and may include, but is not limited to, consideration of the following factors:
•Changes in lending policies and procedures, including changes in underwriting standards and collection, charge-off, and recovery practices not considered elsewhere in estimating credit losses;
•Changes in international, national, regional, and local economic and business conditions and developments that affect the collectability of the portfolio, including the condition of various market segments;
•Changes in the nature and volume of the portfolio and in the terms of loans;
•Changes in the experience, ability and depth of lending management and other relevant staff;
•Changes in the volume and severity of past due loans, the volume of nonaccrual loans and the volume and severity of adversely classified or graded loans;
•Changes in the quality of our loan review system;
•Changes in the value of underlying collateral for collateral-dependent loans;
•The existence and effect of any concentrations of credit, and changes in the level of such concentrations;
•The effect of other external factors such as competition and legal and regulatory requirements on the level of estimated credit losses in our existing portfolio; and
•The effect of limitations of available data, model imprecision and recent macro-economic factors that may not be reflected in the forecast information.
Loans That Do Not Share Similar Risk Characteristics
We monitor our loan pools to ensure all assets therein continue to share similar risk characteristics with other financial assets inside the pool. Changes in credit risk, borrower circumstances or the recognition of write-offs may indicate that a loan's risk profile has changed, and the asset should be removed from its current pool. For a loan that does not share risk characteristics with other loans, expected credit loss is measured based on the net realizable value, that is, the difference between the discounted value of the expected future cash flows and the amortized cost basis of the loan. When a loan is collateral-dependent and the repayment is expected to be provided substantially through the operation or sale of the collateral, the ECL is measured as the difference between the amortized cost basis of the loan and the fair value of the collateral. The fair value of the collateral will be determined by the most recent appraisal, as adjusted to reflect a reasonable marketing period for the sale of the asset(s) and an estimate of reasonable selling expenses. Collateral-dependent loans will have independent appraisals completed and accepted at least annually.
Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments
Allowance for Credit Losses: Unfunded Credit Commitments
We maintain a separate allowance for credit losses for unfunded credit commitments which is included in other liabilities and the related ECL in our provision for credit losses. We estimate the amount of expected losses by using historical trends to calculate a probability of an unfunded credit commitment being funded and derive historical lifetime expected loss factors for each portfolio segment similar to our funded loan ECL. The collectively assessed ECL for unfunded credit commitments also includes the same qualitative allocations applied for our funded loan ECL. For unfunded credit commitments related to loans that do not share similar risk characteristics with other loans, where applicable, a separate estimate of ECL will be included in our total allowance for credit losses on unfunded credit commitments. Loan commitments that are determined to be unconditionally cancellable by the Company do not require an allowance for credit losses on unfunded credit commitments.
Uncollectible Loans and Write-offs
Uncollectible Loans and Write-offs
Our charge-off policy applies to all loans, regardless of portfolio segment. Commercial loans are considered for a full or partial charge-off in the event that principal or interest is over 180 days past due and the loan lacks sufficient collateral and it is not in the process of collection. Consumer loans are considered for a full or partial charge-off in the event that principal or interest is over 120 days past due and the loan lacks sufficient collateral and it is not in the process of collection. We also consider writing off loans in the event of any of the following circumstances: 1) the loan, or a portion of the loan is deemed uncollectible due to: a) the borrower's inability to make recurring payments, b) material changes in the borrower's financial condition, or c) the expected sale of all or a portion of the borrower's business is insufficient to repay the loan in full, or 2) the loan has been identified for charge-off by regulatory authorities.
Troubled Debt Restructurings (TDRs)
Troubled Debt Restructurings
A TDR arises from the modification of a loan where we have granted a concession to the borrower related to the borrower's financial difficulties that we would not have otherwise considered for economic or legal reasons. These concessions may include: (1) deferral of payment for more than an insignificant period of time that does not include sufficient offsetting borrower concessions; (2) interest rate reductions; (3) extension of the maturity date outside of ordinary course extension; (4) principal forgiveness; and/or (5) reduction of accrued interest.
We use the factors in ASC 310-40, Receivables, Troubled Debt Restructurings by Creditors, in analyzing when a borrower is experiencing financial difficulty, and when we have granted a concession, both of which must be present for a restructuring to meet the criteria of a TDR. If we determine that a TDR exists, we measure impairment based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, except that as a practical expedient, we may also measure impairment based on a loan's observable market price, or the fair value of the collateral less selling costs if the loan is a collateral-dependent loan.
In April 2020, we implemented three loan payment deferral programs targeted to assist borrowers who were the most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. These programs included relief for venture-backed, private bank and wine borrowers who met certain criteria. For loans modified under these programs, in accordance with the provisions of Section 4013 of the CARES Act, we elected to not apply troubled debt restructuring classifications to borrowers who were current as of December 31, 2019. In addition, for loans that did not meet the CARES Act criteria, we applied the guidance in an interagency statement issued by bank regulatory agencies. Using this guidance, we may find that borrowers are not experiencing financial difficulty that may otherwise result in a TDR classification, in accordance with ASC Subtopic 310-40, if loan modifications are performed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, provide short-term loan payment deferrals (e.g. six months in duration) and are granted to borrowers who were current as of the implementation date of the loan modification program. We evaluated all loans modified under these programs against the CARES Act and interagency guidance, as applicable, and determined the loan modifications would not be considered TDRs. We did not defer interest income recognition during periods of payment deferral, nor did any qualifying modification trigger nonaccrual status.
Nonaccrual Loans
Nonaccrual Loans
Loans are generally placed on nonaccrual status when they become 90 days past due as to principal or interest payments (unless the principal and interest are well secured and in the process of collection); or when we have determined, based upon currently known information, that the timely collection of principal or interest is not probable.
When a loan is placed on nonaccrual status, the accrued interest and fees are reversed against interest income and the loan is accounted for using the cost recovery method thereafter until qualifying for return to accrual status. For a loan to be returned to accrual status, all delinquent principal and interest must become current in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement and future collection of remaining principal and interest must be deemed probable. We apply a cost recovery
method in which all cash received is applied to the loan principal until it has been collected. Under this approach, interest income is recognized after total cash flows received exceed the recorded investment at the date of initial nonaccrual. All of our nonaccrual loans have credit risk ratings of 8 or 9 and are classified under the nonperforming category.
Premises and Equipment
Premises and Equipment
Premises and equipment are reported at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization are computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets or the terms of the related leases, whichever is shorter. The maximum estimated useful lives by asset classification are as follows:
Leasehold improvements Lesser of lease term or asset life
Furniture and equipment7 years
Computer software
 3-7 years
Computer hardware
 3-5 years
We capitalize the costs of computer software developed or obtained for internal use, including costs related to developed software, purchased software licenses and certain implementation costs.
For property and equipment that is retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and the resulting gain or loss is included in noninterest expense in consolidated net income.
Lease Obligations
Lease Obligations
We have entered into leases for real estate and various equipment utilized for the business. At the inception of the lease, each lease is evaluated to determine whether the lease will be accounted for as an operating or finance lease. We had no finance lease obligations at December 31, 2020 and 2019. We have made an accounting policy election not to recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities that arise from short-term leases for any class of underlying asset. In addition to excluding short-term leases, we have implemented an accounting policy in which non-lease components are not separated from lease components in the measurement of right-of-use ("ROU") asset and lease liabilities for all lease contracts.
ROU assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease ROU assets and liabilities are recognized at the commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. We use the implicit rate when readily determinable. The operating lease ROU asset also includes any lease payments made and excludes lease incentives. Our lease terms may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that we will exercise that option. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
The Company reviews ROU assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. ROU assets are reviewed for recoverability at the lowest level in which there are identifiable cash flows (“asset group”). The carrying amount of an asset group is not considered recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition. If the asset group is determined not to be recoverable, then an impairment charge is recognized in the amount by which the carrying amount of the store asset group exceeds its fair value. The resulting impairment charge, if any, is allocated to the underlying assets on a pro rata basis using their relative carrying amounts.
Business Combinations
Business Combinations
Business combinations are accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. Acquired assets, including separately identifiable intangible assets, and assumed liabilities are recorded at their acquisition-date estimated fair values. The excess of the cost of acquisition over these fair values is recognized as goodwill. During the measurement period, which cannot exceed one year from the acquisition date, changes to estimated fair values are recognized as an adjustment to goodwill. Certain transaction costs are expensed as incurred.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill is not amortized and is subject, at a minimum, to an annual impairment assessment. A quantitative assessment will be completed if we have not recently completed a fair value assessment of the associated reporting unit and compared the assessed fair value of that reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. Should we be required to calculate the fair value of the entity, we would generally apply a discounted cash flow analysis that uses forecasted
performance estimates, and a discount rate leveraging a reporting unit specific capital asset pricing model, which in turn uses assumptions related to market performance and various macroeconomic and reporting unit specific risks. If this quantitative assessment was recently completed and if we deem the estimate to be current and reliable, we will not perform a full quantitative assessment of the reporting unit’s fair value for that reporting period. Instead, we will qualitatively determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. As part of this qualitative analysis we consider macroeconomic factors that might impact the entity’s performance, entity-specific financial performance of the reporting unit, changes in management or strategy and other factors. We will evaluate goodwill for impairment more frequently if circumstances indicate that the fair value of our reporting units is less than their carrying value, including goodwill. Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized over their estimated useful lives and all intangible assets are subject to impairment if events or circumstances indicate that the fair value is less than the carrying amount.
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Measurements
Our available-for-sale securities, derivative instruments and certain non-marketable and other equity securities are financial instruments recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. We make estimates regarding valuation of assets and liabilities measured at fair value in preparing our consolidated financial statements.
Fair Value Measurement-Definition and Hierarchy
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. There is a three-level hierarchy for disclosure of assets and liabilities recorded at fair value. The classification of assets and liabilities within the hierarchy is based on whether the inputs to the valuation methodology used for measurement are observable or unobservable and on the significance of those inputs in the fair value measurement. Observable inputs reflect market-derived or market-based information obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our estimates about market data and views of market participants. The three levels for measuring fair value are based on the reliability of inputs and are as follows:
Level 1
Fair value measurements based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these instruments does not entail a significant degree of judgment. Assets utilizing Level 1 inputs include U.S. Treasury securities, foreign government debt securities, exchange-traded equity securities and certain marketable securities accounted for under fair value accounting.
Level 2
Fair value measurements based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, directly or indirectly. Valuations for the available-for-sale securities are provided by independent pricing service providers who have experience in valuing these securities and are compared to the average of quoted market prices obtained from independent brokers. We perform a monthly analysis on the values received from third parties so that the prices represent a reasonable estimate of the fair value. The procedures include, but are not limited to, initial and ongoing review of third-party pricing methodologies, review of pricing trends and monitoring of trading volumes. Additional corroboration, such as obtaining a non-binding price from a broker, may be obtained depending on the frequency of trades of the security and the level of liquidity or depth of the market. Prices received from independent brokers represent a reasonable estimate of the fair value and are validated through the use of observable market inputs including comparable trades, yield curve, spreads and, when available, market indices. If we determine that there is a more appropriate fair value based upon the available market data, the price received from the third party is adjusted accordingly. Below is a summary of the significant inputs used for each class of Level 2 assets and liabilities:
U.S. agency debentures: Fair value measurements of U.S. agency debentures are based on the characteristics specific to bonds held, such as issuer name, issuance date, coupon rate, maturity date and any applicable issuer call option features. Valuations are based on market spreads relative to similar term benchmark market interest rates, generally U.S. Treasury securities.
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities: Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities are pools of individual conventional mortgage loans underwritten to U.S. agency standards with similar coupon rates, tenor, and other attributes such as geographic location, loan size and origination vintage. Fair value measurements of these securities are
based on observable price adjustments relative to benchmark market interest rates taking into consideration estimated loan prepayment speeds.
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations: Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations are structured into classes or tranches with defined cash flow characteristics and are collateralized by U.S. agency-issued mortgage pass-through securities. Fair value measurements of these securities incorporate similar characteristics of mortgage pass-through securities such as coupon rate, tenor, geographic location, loan size and origination vintage, in addition to incorporating the effect of estimated prepayment speeds on the cash flow structure of the class or tranche. These measurements incorporate observable market spreads over an estimated average life after considering the inputs listed above.
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities: Fair value measurements of these securities are based on spreads to benchmark market interest rates (usually U.S. Treasury rates or rates observable in the swaps market), prepayment speeds, loan default rate assumptions and loan loss severity assumptions on underlying loans.
Foreign exchange forward and option contract assets and liabilities: Fair value measurements of these assets and liabilities are priced based on spot and forward foreign currency rates and option volatility assumptions.
Interest rate derivative and interest rate swap assets and liabilities: Fair value measurements of interest rate derivatives and interest rate swaps are priced considering the coupon rate of the fixed leg of the contract and the variable coupon rate on the floating leg of the contract. Valuation is based on both spot and forward rates on the swap yield curve and the credit worthiness of the contract counterparty.
Other equity securities: Fair value measurements of equity securities of public companies are priced based on quoted market prices less a discount if the securities are subject to certain sales restrictions. Certain sales restriction discounts generally range from 10 percent to 20 percent depending on the duration of the sale restrictions which typically range from three to six months.
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio): Fair value measurements of equity warrant assets of publicly-traded portfolio companies are valued based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The model uses the price of publicly-traded companies (underlying stock price), stated strike prices, warrant expiration dates, the risk-free interest rate and market-observable option volatility assumptions.
Level 3
The fair value measurement is derived from valuation techniques that use significant assumptions not observable in the market. These unobservable assumptions reflect our own estimates of assumptions we believe market participants would use in pricing the asset. The valuation techniques are consistent with the market approach, income approach and/or the cost approach used to measure fair value. Below is a summary of the valuation techniques used for each class of Level 3 assets:
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value: Fair value measurements are based on consideration of a range of factors including, but not limited to, the price at which the investment was acquired, the term and nature of the investment, local market conditions, values for comparable securities, and as it relates to the private company, the current and projected operating performance, exit strategies and financing transactions subsequent to the acquisition of the investment. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement include the information about each portfolio company, including actual and forecasted results, cash position, recent or planned transactions and market comparable companies.
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio): Fair value measurements of equity warrant assets of publicly-traded portfolio companies are valued based on the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The model uses the price of publicly-traded companies (underlying stock price), stated strike prices, warrant expiration dates, the risk-free interest rate and market-observable option volatility assumptions. Modeled asset values are further adjusted by applying a discount of up to 20 percent for certain warrants that have certain sales restrictions or other features that indicate a discount to fair value is warranted.
Equity warrant assets (private portfolio): Fair value measurements of equity warrant assets of private portfolio companies are priced based on a Black-Scholes option pricing model to estimate the asset value by using stated strike prices, option expiration dates, risk-free interest rates and option volatility assumptions. Option volatility assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model are based on public market indices whose members operate in similar industries as companies in our private company portfolio. Option expiration dates are modified to account for estimates to actual life relative to stated expiration. Overall model asset values are further adjusted for a general lack of liquidity due to the private nature of the associated underlying company. There is a direct correlation between changes in the volatility and
remaining life assumptions in isolation and the fair value measurement while there is an inverse correlation between changes in the liquidity discount assumption and the fair value measurement.
Fee-based Services Revenue Recognition Fee-based Services Revenue Recognition Refer to Note 16—“Noninterest Income” for our fee-based services revenue recognition policies for our contracts with customers.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Our federal, state and foreign income tax provisions are based upon taxes payable for the current year, current year changes in deferred taxes related to temporary differences between the tax basis and financial statement balances of assets and liabilities, and a reserve for uncertain tax positions. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in the consolidated financial statements at currently enacted income tax rates applicable to the period in which the deferred tax assets and liabilities are expected to be realized. As changes in tax laws or rates are enacted, deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted through the provision for income taxes. A valuation allowance is provided, when it is determined based upon available evidence, that it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. We file a consolidated federal income tax return, and consolidated, combined, or separate state income tax returns as appropriate. Our foreign incorporated subsidiaries file tax returns in the applicable foreign jurisdictions. We record interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in other noninterest expense, a component of consolidated net income.
Share-Based Compensation Share-Based Compensation For all stock-based awards granted, stock-based compensation expense is amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period, including consideration of vesting conditions and anticipated forfeitures. The fair value of stock options are measured using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and the fair value for restricted stock awards and restricted stock units are based on the quoted price of our common stock on the date of grant.
Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common stock shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per common share is computed using the weighted average number of common stock shares and potential common shares outstanding during the period. Potential common shares consist of stock options, ESPP shares and restricted stock units. Common stock equivalent shares are excluded from the computation if the effect is antidilutive.
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative Financial Instruments
All derivative instruments are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. The accounting for changes in fair value of a derivative financial instrument depends on whether the derivative financial instrument is designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship and, if so, the nature of the hedging activity. Changes in fair value are recognized through earnings for derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment, or that have not been designated in a hedging relationship.
Cash Flow Hedges
For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income and recognized in earnings as the hedged item affects earnings. Derivative amounts affecting earnings are recognized consistent with the classification of the hedged item in the line item "loans" as part of interest income, a component of consolidated net income. We assess hedge effectiveness under ASC 815, Derivatives and Hedging ("ASC 815"), on a quarterly basis to ensure all hedges remain highly effective to ensure hedge accounting under ASC 815 can be applied. If the hedging relationship no longer exists or no longer qualifies as a hedge per ASC 815, any amounts remaining as gain or loss in accumulated other comprehensive income are reclassified into earnings in the line item "loans" as part of interest income, a component of consolidated net income.
Equity Warrant Assets
In connection with negotiated credit facilities and certain other services, we may obtain equity warrant assets giving us the right to acquire stock in primarily private, venture-backed companies in the technology and life science/healthcare
industries. We hold these assets for prospective investment gains. We do not use them to hedge any economic risks nor do we use other derivative instruments to hedge economic risks stemming from equity warrant assets.
We account for equity warrant assets in certain private and public client companies as derivatives when they contain net settlement terms and other qualifying criteria under ASC 815. In general, equity warrant assets entitle us to buy a specific number of shares of stock at a specific price within a specific time period. Certain equity warrant assets contain contingent provisions, which adjust the underlying number of shares or purchase price upon the occurrence of certain future events. Substantially all of our warrant agreements contain net share settlement provisions, which permit us to receive at exercise a share count equal to the intrinsic value of the warrant divided by the share price (otherwise known as a “cashless” exercise). These equity warrant assets are recorded at fair value and are classified as derivative assets, a component of other assets, on our consolidated balance sheet at the time they are obtained.
The grant date fair values of equity warrant assets received in connection with the issuance of a credit facility are deemed to be loan fees and recognized as an adjustment of loan yield through loan interest income. Similar to other loan fees, the yield adjustment related to grant date fair value of warrants is recognized over the life of that credit facility.
Any changes in fair value from the grant date fair value of equity warrant assets will be recognized as increases or decreases to other assets on our balance sheet and as net gains or losses on equity warrant assets, in noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income. We value our equity warrant assets using a Black-Scholes option pricing model, which incorporates the following significant inputs:
•An underlying asset value, which is estimated based on current information available in valuation reports, including any information regarding subsequent rounds of funding or performance of a company.
•Stated strike price, which can be adjusted for certain warrants upon the occurrence of subsequent funding rounds or other future events.
•Price volatility or risk associated with possible changes in the warrant price. The volatility assumption is based on historical price volatility of publicly traded companies within indices similar in nature to the underlying client companies issuing the warrant. The actual volatility input is based on the mean and median volatility for an individual public company within an index for the past 16 quarters, from which an average volatility was derived.
•Actual data on terminations and exercises of our warrants are utilized as the basis for determining the expected remaining life of the warrants in each financial reporting period. Warrants may be exercised in the event of acquisitions, mergers or IPOs, and cancelled due to events such as bankruptcies, restructuring activities or additional financings. These events cause the expected remaining life assumption to be shorter than the contractual term of the warrants.
•The risk-free interest rate is derived from the Treasury yield curve and is calculated based on a weighted average of the risk-free interest rates that correspond closest to the expected remaining life of the warrant.
•Other adjustments, including a marketability discount, are estimated based on management's judgment about the general industry environment.
•Number of shares and contingencies associated with obtaining warrant positions such as the funding of associated loans.
When a company in the portfolio completes an IPO, or is acquired, we may exercise these equity warrant assets for shares or cash. In the event of an exercise for common stock shares, the basis or value in the common stock shares is reclassified from other assets to investment securities on the balance sheet on the latter of the exercise date or corporate action date. The common stock of public companies are classified as non-marketable and other equity securities. Changes in the fair value of the common stock shares is recorded as gains or losses on investments securities, in noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income. The common stock of private companies are classified as non-marketable and other equity securities. We account for these securities under the methodology under ASU 2016-01, other investments without a readily determinable fair value. The carrying value in the private common stock without a readily determinable fair value is based on the price at which the investment was acquired plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments and are recorded as gains or losses on investments securities, in noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income.
Foreign Exchange Forwards and Foreign Currency Option Contracts
We enter into foreign exchange forward contracts and foreign currency option contracts with clients involved in international activities, either as the purchaser or seller, depending upon the clients' need. We also enter into an opposite-
way forward or option contract with a correspondent bank to economically hedge client contracts to mitigate the fair value risk to us from fluctuations in currency rates. Settlement, credit and operational risks remain. We also enter into forward contracts with correspondent banks to economically hedge currency exposure risk related to certain foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. These contracts are not designated as hedging instruments and are recorded at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets. The contracts generally have terms of one year or less, although we may have contracts extending for up to five years. Generally, we have not experienced nonperformance on these contracts, have not incurred credit losses and anticipate performance by all counterparties to such agreements. Changes in the fair value of these contracts are recognized in consolidated net income under other noninterest income, a component of noninterest income. Period-end gross positive fair values are recorded in other assets and gross negative fair values are recorded in other liabilities.
Interest Rate Contracts
We sell interest rate contracts to clients who wish to mitigate their interest rate exposure. We economically reduce the interest rate risk from this business by entering into opposite-way contracts with correspondent banks. We do not designate any of these contracts (which are derivative instruments) as qualifying for hedge accounting. Contracts in an asset position are included in other assets and contracts in a liability position are included in other liabilities. The net change in the fair value of these derivatives is recorded through other noninterest income, in noninterest income, a component of consolidated net income.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
Adoption of New Accounting Standards
Financial Instruments - Credit Losses
In June 2016, the FASB issued a new Accounting Standard Update (ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments- Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments), which amends the incurred loss impairment methodology in current GAAP with a methodology that reflects a current expected credit loss measurement to estimate the allowance for credit losses over the contractual life of the financial assets (including loans, unfunded credit commitments and HTM securities) and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. While the CECL model does not apply to available-for-sale debt securities, ASU 2016-13 does require entities to record an allowance for credit losses when recognizing credit losses for available-for-sale securities, rather than reduce the amortized cost of the securities by direct write-offs, which allows for reversal of credit impairments in future periods based on improvements in credit. We adopted the guidance on January 1, 2020, using a modified retrospective approach. We recognized the cumulative effect of initially applying CECL as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings, net of tax. The comparative information has not been restated and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods.
We completed a comprehensive implementation process that included loss forecasting model development, evaluation of technical accounting topics, updates to our allowance for credit loss accounting policies, reporting processes and related internal controls, overall operational readiness for our adoption of CECL as well as parallel runs for CECL alongside our previous allowance process. We provided quarterly updates to senior management and to the Audit and Credit Committees of the Board of Directors throughout the implementation process. For additional details regarding our allowance for credit losses methodology, see Note 9—“Loans and Allowance for Credit Losses: Loans and Unfunded Credit Commitments.”
Upon the adoption of the standard on January 1, 2020, and based on our loan, unfunded credit commitment, and HTM security portfolios composition at December 31, 2019, and the then current economic environment, we recorded a $48.5 million increase to the allowance for credit losses. After adjusting for deferred taxes, a $35.0 million decrease was recorded to retained earnings through a cumulative-effect adjustment.
Under the prior guidance, our loan portfolio and credit quality disclosures were disaggregated based on client market segments. Upon adoption of CECL, our technology (software/internet and hardware) and life science/healthcare market segments are disclosed by disaggregated risk-based segments determined by portfolio segments that align with their respective underwriting methodology and the level at which credit risk is now monitored by management. The primary underwriting method for our technology and life science/healthcare portfolios are classified as Investor Dependent - Accelerator (Early-Stage) and Growth (Mid-Stage and Later-Stage) and Cash Flow (Sponsor Led Buyout and Other) and Balance Sheet Dependent, as noted above, and prior period amounts were reclassified for comparability. There are no other material changes to our current market segments.
Summary of Allowance for Loan Losses, Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments and Impaired Loans Superseded by Recently Adopted Accounting Standards (Applicable to the Years Ending December 31, 2019 and 2018)
Allowance for Loan Losses
The allowance for loan losses considers credit risk and is established through a provision for loan losses charged to expense. Our allowance for loan losses is established for estimated loan losses that are probable and incurred but not yet realized. Our evaluation process is designed to determine that the allowance for loan losses is appropriate at the balance sheet date. The process of estimating loan losses is inherently imprecise.
We maintain a systematic process for the evaluation of individual loans and pools of loans for inherent risk of loan losses. At the time of approval, each loan in our portfolio is assigned a Credit Risk Rating and industry niche. Credit Risk Ratings are assigned on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 representing loans with a low risk of nonpayment, 9 representing loans with the highest risk of nonpayment, and 10 representing loans which have been charged-off. The credit risk ratings for each loan are monitored and updated on an ongoing basis. This Credit Risk Rating process includes, but is not limited to, consideration of such factors as payment status, the financial condition and operating performance of the borrower, borrower compliance with loan covenants, underlying collateral values and performance trends, the degree of access to additional capital, the presence of credit enhancements such as third party guarantees (where applicable), the degree to which the borrower is sensitive to external factors, the depth and experience of the borrower's management team, potential loan concentrations, and general economic conditions. Our policies require a committee of senior management to review, at least quarterly, credit relationships with a credit risk rating of 5 through 9 that exceed specific dollar values. Our review process evaluates the appropriateness of the credit risk rating and allocation of the allowance for loan losses, as well as other account management functions. The allowance for loan losses is determined based on a qualitative analysis and a formula allocation for similar risk-rated loans categorized by portfolio segment, and individually for impaired loans. The formula allocation provides the average loan loss experience for each portfolio segment, which considers our quarterly historical loss experience since the year 2000, both by risk-rating category and client industry sector. The resulting loan loss factors for each risk-rating category and client industry sector are ultimately applied to the respective period-end client loan balances for each corresponding risk-rating category and client industry sector to provide an estimation of the allowance for loan losses. The probable loan loss experience for any one year period of time is reasonably expected to be greater or less than the average as determined by the loss factors. As such, management applies a qualitative allocation to the results of the aforementioned model to ascertain the total allowance for loan losses. This qualitative allocation is based on management's assessment of the risks that may lead to a loan loss experience that is different from our historical loan loss experience. Based on management's prediction or estimate of changing risks in the lending environment, the qualitative allocation may vary significantly from period to period and includes, but is not limited to, consideration of the following factors:
•Changes in lending policies and procedures, including underwriting standards and collections, and charge-off and recovery practices;
•Changes in national and local economic business conditions, including the market and economic condition of our clients' industry sectors;
•Changes in the nature of our loan portfolio;
•Changes in experience, ability, and depth of lending management and staff;
•Changes in the trend of the volume and severity of past due and classified loans;
•Changes in the trend of the volume of nonaccrual loans, troubled debt restructurings and other loan modifications;
•Reserve floor for portfolio segments that would not draw a minimum reserve based on the lack of historical loan loss experience;
•Reserve for large funded loan exposure;
•Reserve for performing impaired loan exposure; and
•Other factors as determined by management from time to time.
While the evaluation process of our allowance for loan losses uses historical and other objective information, the classification of loans and the establishment of the allowance for loan losses rely, to a great extent, on the judgment and experience of our management.
Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments
We record a liability for probable and estimable incurred losses associated with our unfunded credit commitments being funded and subsequently being charged off. Each quarter, every unfunded client credit commitment is allocated to a credit risk-rating in accordance with each client's credit risk rating and portfolio segment. We use the segment specific historical loan loss factors described above under "Allowance for Loan Losses" to calculate the loan loss experience if unfunded credit commitments are funded. Separately, we use historical trends to calculate a probability of an unfunded credit commitment being funded. We apply the loan funding probability factor to risk-factor adjusted unfunded credit commitments by credit risk-rating and portfolio segment to derive the allowance for unfunded credit commitments, similar to funded loans. The allowance for unfunded credit commitments also includes certain qualitative allocations as deemed appropriate by management. We include the allowance for unfunded credit commitments in other liabilities and the related provision in our provision for credit losses.
Impaired Loans
A loan is considered impaired when, based upon currently known information, it is deemed probable that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the agreement. On a quarterly basis, we review our loan portfolio for impairment. Within each class of loans, we review individual loans for impairment based on credit risk ratings. Loans risk-rated 5 through 7 are performing loans; however, we consider them as demonstrating higher risk, which requires more frequent review of individual exposures. Such loans translate to an internal rating of "Performing (Criticized)" and could be classified as a performing impaired loan.
For each loan identified as impaired, we measure the impairment based upon the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate. In limited circumstances, we may measure impairment based on the loan's observable market price or the fair value of the collateral less selling costs if the loan is collateral dependent. Impaired collateral-dependent loans will have independent appraisals completed and accepted at least annually. The fair value of the collateral will be determined by the most recent appraisal, as adjusted to reflect a reasonable marketing period for the sale of the asset(s) and an estimate of reasonable selling expenses.
If it is determined that the value of an impaired loan is less than the recorded investment in the loan, net of previous charge-offs and payments collected, we recognize impairment through the allowance for loan losses as determined by our analysis.
Reclassifications Reclassifications Certain prior period amounts primarily related to the adoption of the ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments) ("ASU 2016-13" or "CECL") as mentioned above have been reclassified to conform to current period presentations.
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Summary of Ownership Interests in Investments Held Under Fair Value Accounting A summary of our
ownership interests in the investments held under fair value accounting as of December 31, 2020 is presented in the following table:
Limited partnershipCompany Direct and Indirect Ownership in Limited Partnership
Managed funds of funds
Strategic Investors Fund, LP12.6 %
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP20.0 
Growth Partners, LP33.0 
Maximum Estimated Useful Lives by Asset Classification The maximum estimated useful lives by asset classification are as follows:
Leasehold improvements Lesser of lease term or asset life
Furniture and equipment7 years
Computer software
 3-7 years
Computer hardware
 3-5 years
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity and EPS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Equity and Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The following table summarizes the items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income into the Consolidated Statements of Income for 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)Income Statement Location202020192018
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income
Gains on investment securities, net
$(61,165)$3,905 $740 
Related tax expense (benefit)Income tax expense16,953 (1,087)(205)
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on cash flow hedges included in net income
Net interest income
(49,928)5,358 — 
Related tax expense (benefit)Income tax expense13,692 (1,489)— 
Total reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income, net of tax$(80,448)$6,687 $535 
Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The table below summarizes the activity relating to net gains and losses on our cash flow hedges included in accumulated other comprehensive income for 2020, 2019 and 2018. Refer to Note 15—“Derivative Financial Instruments” for additional information regarding the termination of our cash flow hedges during the quarter ended March 31, 2020. Over the next 12 months, we expect that approximately $63.3 million in accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") at December 31, 2020, related to our cash flow hedges will be reclassified out of AOCI and recognized in net income.
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Balance, beginning of period, net of tax$(2,130)$— $— 
Net increase (decrease) in fair value, net of tax167,639 (5,999)— 
Net realized (gain) loss reclassified to net income, net of tax(36,236)3,869 — 
Balance, end of period, net of tax
$129,273 $(2,130)$— 
Reconciliation of Basic EPS to Diluted EPS The following is a reconciliation of basic EPS to diluted EPS for 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars and shares in thousands, except per share amounts)202020192018
Numerator:
Net income available to common stockholders$1,191,217 $1,136,856 $973,840 
Denominator:
Weighted average common shares outstanding—basic51,685 51,915 53,078 
Weighted average effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options and ESPP151 227 377 
Restricted stock units248 169 317 
Weighted average common shares outstanding—diluted
52,084 52,311 53,772 
Earnings per common share:
Basic$23.05 $21.90 $18.35 
Diluted22.87 21.73 18.11 
Weighted Average Common Shares Excluded from Diluted EPS Calculation
The following table summarizes the weighted average common shares excluded from the diluted EPS calculation due to the antidilutive effect for 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 Year ended December 31,
(Shares in thousands)202020192018
Stock options279 167 59 
Restricted stock units10 250 85 
Total289 417 144 
Schedule of Preferred Stock
The following table summarizes our preferred stock at December 31, 2020:
SeriesDescriptionAmount outstanding (in millions)Carrying value
(in millions)		Shares issued and outstandingPar ValueOwnership interest per depositary shareLiquidation preference per depositary share2020 dividends paid per depositary share
Series A5.250% Fixed-Rate Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock$350 $340.1 350,000$0.001 1/40th$25 $1.23 
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Share Based Compensation and Related Benefits In 2020, 2019 and 2018, we recorded share-based compensation and related benefits as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Share-based compensation expense$83,986 $66,815 $45,675 
Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation expense
(20,426)(16,152)(10,997)
Capitalized compensation costs1,383 1,517 1,466 
Unrecognized Share Based Compensation Expense
As of December 31, 2020, unrecognized share-based compensation expense was as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)Unrecognized 
Expense		Weighted Average Expected Recognition Period - in Years  
Stock options$13,854 2.42
Restricted stock awards/units119,764 2.59
Total unrecognized share-based compensation expense$133,618 
Weighted Average Assumptions and Fair Values Used for Employee Stock Options and Restricted Stock Units The following weighted average assumptions and fair values were used for our employee stock options and restricted stock units:
Equity Incentive Plan Awards202020192018
Weighted average expected term of options - in years4.64.64.8
Weighted average expected volatility of the Company's underlying common stock
41.9 %35.5 %34.7 %
Risk-free interest rate0.37 2.26 2.82 
Expected dividend yield— — — 
Weighted average grant date fair value - stock options$66.44 $83.50 $105.81 
Weighted average grant date fair value - restricted stock units199.51 243.65 294.50 
Weighted Average Assumptions and Fair Values Used for ESPP
The following weighted average assumptions and fair values were used for our ESPP:
ESPP202020192018
Expected term in years0.50.50.5
Weighted average expected volatility of the Company's underlying common stock51.9 %38.1 %32.2 %
Risk-free interest rate1.12 2.40 1.79 
Expected dividend yield— — — 
Weighted average grant date fair value$69.54 $52.90 $62.76 
Stock Option Information Related to Equity Incentive Plan
The table below provides stock option information related to the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan for the year ended December 31, 2020:
OptionsWeighted
Average
 Exercise Price 		Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life - in Years  Aggregate Intrinsic Value of 
In-The-Money Options
Outstanding at December 31, 2019625,407 $169.33 
Granted124,091 187.59 
Exercised(173,536)106.42 
Forfeited(15,931)232.60 
Expired(1,030)71.11 
Outstanding at December 31, 2020559,001 191.29 4.01$109,865,324 
Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2020538,524 190.30 3.94106,375,308 
Exercisable at December 31, 2020276,191 157.07 2.4763,734,604 
Stock Options Outstanding The following table summarizes information regarding stock options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2020:
Outstanding OptionsExercisable Options
Range of Exercise PricesSharesWeighted Average Remaining Contractual Life - in YearsWeighted Average Exercise PriceSharesWeighted Average Exercise Price
$101.14 - 105.84
87,538 2.31$105.15 87,538 $105.15 
105.85 - 126.18
42,249 0.33108.04 42,249 108.04 
126.19 - 173.94
47,407 1.36130.42 46,673 129.81 
173.95 - 181.63
64,974 3.33178.39 45,579 178.39 
181.64 - 195.34
116,375 6.33184.86 — — 
195.35 - 247.56
15,765 5.69230.24 3,777 227.23 
247.57 - 277.95
112,934 5.33250.43 15,367 250.43 
277.96- 306.22
68,705 4.33305.46 33,875 305.46 
306.23 - 315.88
790 6.84306.98 — — 
315.89 - 324.77
2,264 4.60324.77 1,133 324.77 
Total559,001 4.01191.29 276,191 157.07 
Information for Restricted Stock Units under Equity Incentive Plan
The table below provides information for restricted stock units under the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan for the year ended December 31, 2020:
Shares    Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Nonvested at December 31, 2019847,972 $236.54 
Granted460,671 199.51 
Vested(261,302)209.30 
Forfeited(52,292)225.66 
Nonvested at December 31, 2020995,049 227.12 
Summary of Information Regarding Stock Option and Restricted Stock Activity
The following table summarizes information regarding stock option and restricted stock unit activity during 2020, 2019 and 2018:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised$25,380 $23,088 $40,681 
Total grant date fair value of stock options vested5,868 5,735 5,823 
Total intrinsic value of restricted stock vested55,782 56,101 63,917 
Total grant date fair value of restricted stock vested47,237 35,191 28,813 
v3.20.4
Variable Interest Entities (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Investments In Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]  
Schedule of Variable Interest Entities The following table presents the carrying amounts and classification of significant variable interests in consolidated and unconsolidated VIEs as of December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Consolidated VIEsUnconsolidated VIEsMaximum Exposure to Loss in Unconsolidated VIEs
December 31, 2020:
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$14,859 $— $— 
Non-marketable and other equity securities (1)422,049 858,617 858,617 
Accrued interest receivable and other assets937 — — 
Total assets$437,845 $858,617 $858,617 
Liabilities:
Other liabilities (1)1,410 370,208 — 
Total liabilities$1,410 $370,208 $— 
December 31, 2019:
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$7,629 $— $— 
Non-marketable and other equity securities (1)270,057 689,360 689,360 
Accrued interest receivable and other assets1,117 — — 
Total assets$278,803 $689,360 $689,360 
Liabilities:
Other liabilities (1)2,854 302,031 — 
Total liabilities$2,854 $302,031 $— 
(1)Included in our unconsolidated non-marketable and other equity securities portfolio at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 are investments in qualified affordable housing projects of $616.2 million and $458.5 million, respectively, and related other liabilities consisting of unfunded commitments of $370.2 million and $302.0 million, respectively.
v3.20.4
Reserves on Deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Bank Stock (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock and Federal Reserve Bank Stock [Abstract]  
Average Required Reserve Balances
The tables below provide information on the required reserve balances at the Federal Reserve, as well as shares held at the FHLB and FRB for the years ended and as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Average required reserve balances at FRB San Francisco$82,461 $315,784 
Shares Held at Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
FHLB stock holdings$17,250 $17,250 
FRB stock holdings43,982 43,008 
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]  
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The following table details our cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Cash and due from banks (1)$17,447,916 $6,492,443 
Securities purchased under agreements to resell (2)226,847 289,340 
Total cash and cash equivalents$17,674,763 $6,781,783 
(1)At December 31, 2020 and 2019, $13.7 billion and $3.7 billion, respectively, of our cash and due from banks was deposited at the FRB and was earning interest at the Federal Funds target rate, and interest-earning deposits in other financial institutions were $3.0 billion and $2.1 billion, respectively.
(2)At December 31, 2020 and 2019, securities purchased under agreements to resell were collateralized by U.S. Treasury securities and U.S. agency securities with aggregate fair values of $232 million and $295 million, respectively. None of these securities were sold or repledged as of December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Securities Purchased Under Agreements to Resell
Additional information regarding our securities purchased under agreements to resell for 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Average securities purchased under agreements to resell$149,385 $166,205 
Maximum amount outstanding at any month-end during the year450,164 613,247 
v3.20.4
Investment Securities (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Major Components of Investment Securities Portfolio
The major components of our AFS investment securities portfolio at 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
 December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized
Cost		Unrealized
Gains		Unrealized
Losses		Carrying
Value
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value:
U.S. Treasury securities$4,197,858 $271,977 $(107)$4,469,728 
U.S. agency debentures233,727 4,165 (585)237,307 
Foreign government debt securities24,491 1 — 24,492 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities13,271,482 232,850 (651)13,503,681 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate8,076,832 40,010 (10,278)8,106,564 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities4,440,506 133,527 (3,367)4,570,666 
Total available-for-sale securities$30,244,896 $682,530 $(14,988)$30,912,438 
 December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized
Cost		Unrealized
Gains		Unrealized
Losses		Carrying
Value
Available-for-sale securities, at fair value:
U.S. Treasury securities$6,815,874 $82,267 $(4,131)$6,894,010 
U.S. agency debentures100,000 — (453)99,547 
Foreign government debt securities9,037 1 — 9,038 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities4,109,372 39,438 (19)4,148,791 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate1,520,414 17,929 — 1,538,343 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities1,339,651 1,078 (15,539)1,325,190 
Total available-for-sale securities$13,894,348 $140,713 $(20,142)$14,014,919 
Schedule of Realized Gain (Loss)
The following table summarizes sale activity of available-for-sale securities as recorded in the line item “Gains on investment securities, net," a component of noninterest income:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Sales proceeds$2,654,212 $2,189,087 $474,482 
Net realized gains and losses:
Gross realized gains61,165 1,250 127 
Gross realized losses— (5,155)(867)
Net realized losses$61,165 $(3,905)$(740)
Summary of Unrealized Losses on Available for Sale Securities
The following tables summarize our AFS securities in an unrealized loss position for which an allowance for credit losses has not been recorded and summarized into categories of less than 12 months, or 12 months or longer as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
 December 31, 2020
 Less than 12 months12 months or longer (1)Total
(Dollars in thousands)Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses
Available-for-sale securities:
U.S. Treasury securities $59,929 $(107)$— $— $59,929 $(107)
U.S. agency debentures133,143 (585)— — 133,143 (585)
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities903,767 (651)— — 903,767 (651)
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate2,199,207 (10,278)— — 2,199,207 (10,278)
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities989,389 (3,367)— — 989,389 (3,367)
Total available-for-sale securities (1)$4,285,435 $(14,988)$— $— $4,285,435 $(14,988)
(1)As of December 31, 2020, we identified a total of 93 investments that were in unrealized loss positions with no investments in unrealized loss positions for a period of time greater than 12 months. Based on our analysis of the securities in an unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2020, the decline in value is unrelated to credit loss and is related to changes in market interest rates since purchase and therefore changes in value for securities are included in other comprehensive income. Market valuations and credit loss analyses on assets in the AFS securities portfolio are reviewed and monitored on a quarterly basis. As of December 31, 2020, we do not intend to sell any of our securities in an unrealized loss position prior to recovery of our amortized cost basis, and it is more likely than not that we will not be required to sell any of our securities prior to recovery of our amortized cost basis. None of the investments in our AFS securities portfolio were past due as of December 31, 2020.
 December 31, 2019
 Less than 12 months12 months or longer (1)Total
(Dollars in thousands)Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value of
Investments		Unrealized
Losses
Available-for-sale securities:
U.S. Treasury securities $971,572 $(3,996)$449,850 $(135)$1,421,422 $(4,131)
U.S. agency debentures99,547 (453)— — 99,547 (453)
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities4,014 (19)— — 4,014 (19)
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities1,027,232 (15,539)— — 1,027,232 (15,539)
Total available-for-sale securities (1)$2,102,365 $(20,007)$449,850 $(135)$2,552,215 $(20,142)
(1)As of December 31, 2019, we identified a total of 58 investments that were in unrealized loss positions, of which 12 investments totaling $0.4 billion with unrealized losses of $0.1 million have been in an unrealized loss position for a period of time greater than 12 months.
Summary of Remaining Contractual Principal Maturities and Fully Taxable Equivalent Yields on Securities The following table summarizes the fixed income securities, carried at fair value, classified as AFS as of December 31, 2020 by the remaining contractual principal maturities. For U.S. Treasury securities, U.S. agency debentures and foreign government debt securities, the expected maturity is the actual contractual maturity of the notes. Expected maturities for mortgage-backed securities may differ significantly from their contractual maturities because mortgage borrowers have the right to prepay outstanding loan obligations with or without penalties. Mortgage-backed securities classified as AFS typically have original contractual maturities from 10 to 30 years whereas expected average lives of these securities tend to be significantly shorter and vary based upon structure and prepayments in lower interest rate environments.
 December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)TotalOne Year
or Less		After One
Year to
Five Years		After Five
Years to
Ten Years		After
Ten Years
U.S. Treasury securities$4,469,728 $10,092 $3,532,784 $926,852 $— 
U.S. agency debentures237,307 — — 237,307 — 
Foreign government debt securities24,492 24,492 — — — 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage-backed securities13,503,681 — — — 13,503,681 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate8,106,564 — — — 8,106,564 
Agency -issued commercial mortgage-backed securities4,570,666 — — 1,502,572 3,068,094 
Total$30,912,438 $34,584 $3,532,784 $2,666,731 $24,678,339 
The following table summarizes the remaining contractual principal maturities on fixed income investment securities classified as HTM as of December 31, 2020. For U.S. agency debentures, the expected maturity is the actual contractual maturity of the notes. Expected maturities for mortgage-backed securities may differ significantly from their contractual maturities because mortgage borrowers have the right to prepay outstanding loan obligations with or without penalties. Mortgage-backed securities classified as HTM typically have original contractual maturities from 10 to 30 years whereas expected average lives of these securities tend to be significantly shorter and vary based upon structure and prepayments in lower interest rate environments.
 December 31, 2020
 TotalOne Year
or Less		After One Year to
Five Years		After Five Years to
Ten Years		After
Ten Years
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair ValueAmortized CostFair Value
U.S. agency debentures$402,265 $421,226 $4,675 $4,705 $148,478 $153,756 $249,112 $262,765 $— $— 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities7,739,763 7,977,673 4,762 4,951 20,389 21,150 540,731 559,727 7,173,881 7,391,845 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - fixed rate1,735,451 1,758,382 — — 5,952 6,073 494,532 505,156 1,234,967 1,247,153 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - variable rate136,913 137,230 — — — — — — 136,913 137,230 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities2,942,959 3,066,805 — — — — 102,359 119,922 2,840,600 2,946,883 
Municipal bonds and notes3,635,194 3,855,555 46,292 46,641 144,347 150,940 669,281 721,554 2,775,274 2,936,420 
Total$16,592,545 $17,216,871 $55,729 $56,297 $319,166 $331,919 $2,056,015 $2,169,124 $14,161,635 $14,659,531 
Held-to-maturity Securities
The components of our HTM investment securities portfolio at December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
 December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized
Cost		Unrealized
Gains		Unrealized
Losses		Fair ValueAllowance for Credit Losses (2)
Held-to-maturity securities, at cost:
U.S. agency debentures (1)$402,265 $18,961 $— $421,226 $— 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities7,739,763 240,121 (2,211)7,977,673 — 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate1,735,451 23,227 (296)1,758,382 — 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—variable rate136,913 317 — 137,230 — 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities2,942,959 123,846 — 3,066,805 — 
Municipal bonds and notes 3,635,194 220,866 (505)3,855,555 392 
Total held-to-maturity securities$16,592,545 $627,338 $(3,012)$17,216,871 $392 
(1)    Consists of pools of Small Business Investment Company debentures issued and guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, an independent agency of the United States.
(2) Refer to Note 2—“Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” for more information on our credit loss methodology.
 December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)Amortized
Cost		Unrealized
Gains		Unrealized
Losses		Fair Value
Held-to-maturity securities, at cost:
U.S. agency debentures (1)$518,728 $6,640 $(668)$524,700 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities6,992,009 142,209 (2,066)7,132,152 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate1,608,032 592 (8,502)1,600,122 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—variable rate178,611 94 (259)178,446 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities2,759,615 56,914 (4,508)2,812,021 
Municipal bonds and notes1,785,951 83,314 (1,434)1,867,831 
Total held-to-maturity securities$13,842,946 $289,763 $(17,437)$14,115,272 
(1)    Consists of pools of Small Business Investment Company debentures issued and guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, an independent agency of the United States.
Allowance for Credit Losses for HTM Securities
The following table summarizes the activity relating to our allowance for credit losses for HTM securities for 2020:
Year ended December 31, 2020:Beginning Balance December 31, 2019Day One Impact of Adopting ASC 326Provision for HTM SecuritiesEnding Balance December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)
Municipal bonds and notes
$— $174 $218 $392 
Total allowance for credit losses
$— $174 $218 $392 
Credit Quality Indicators
On a quarterly basis, management monitors the credit quality for HTM securities through the use of standard credit ratings. The following table summarizes our amortized cost of HTM securities aggregated by credit quality indicator at December 31, 2020:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020
Municipal bonds and notes:
Aaa$2,070,311 
Aa11,144,500 
Aa2420,383 
Total $3,635,194 
Schedule of Nonmarketable and Other Securities
The major components of our non-marketable and other equity securities portfolio at December 31, 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Non-marketable and other equity securities:
Non-marketable securities (fair value accounting):
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments (1)$88,937 $87,180 
Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments (2)184,886 178,217 
Other investments without a readily determinable fair value (3)60,975 55,255 
Other equity securities in public companies (fair value accounting) (4)280,804 59,200 
Non-marketable securities (equity method accounting) (5):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments362,192 215,367 
Debt funds5,444 7,271 
Other investments202,809 152,863 
Investments in qualified affordable housing projects, net (6)616,188 458,476 
Total non-marketable and other equity securities$1,802,235 $1,213,829 
(1)The following table shows the amounts of venture capital and private equity fund investments held by the following consolidated funds and our ownership percentage of each fund at December 31, 2020 and 2019 (fair value accounting):
 December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)AmountOwnership %AmountOwnership %
Strategic Investors Fund, LP$4,850 12.6 %$5,729 12.6 %
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP49,574 20.0 45,341 20.0 
Growth Partners, LP34,513 33.0 35,976 33.0 
CP I, LP— — 134 10.7 
Total consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments
$88,937 $87,180 

(2)The carrying value represents investments in 162 and 205 funds (primarily venture capital funds) at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, where our ownership interest is typically less than 5% of the voting interests of each such fund and in which we do not have the ability to exercise significant influence over the partnerships operating activities and financial policies. We carry our unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments at fair value based on the fund investments' net asset values per share as obtained from the general partners of the investments. For each fund investment, we adjust the net asset value per share for differences between our measurement date and the date of the fund investment’s net asset value by using the most recently available financial information from the investee general partner, for example September 30th for our December 31st consolidated financial statements, adjusted for any contributions paid, distributions received from the investment, and significant fund transactions or market events during the reporting period.
(3)These investments include direct equity investments in private companies. The carrying value is based on the price at which the investment was acquired plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments. We consider a range of factors when adjusting the fair value of these investments, including, but not limited to, the term and nature of the investment, local market conditions, values for comparable securities, current and projected operating performance, exit strategies, financing transactions subsequent to the acquisition of the investment and a discount for certain investments that have lock-up restrictions or other features that indicate a discount to fair value is warranted.
The following table shows the carrying amount of other investments without a readily determinable fair value at December 31, 2020, and the amounts recognized in earnings for the year ended December 31, 2020 and on a cumulative basis:
(Dollars in thousands)Year ended December 31, 2020Cumulative Adjustments
Measurement alternative:
Carrying value at December 31, 2020$60,975 
Carrying value adjustments:
Impairment
$(487)$(947)
Upward changes for observable prices
3,479 4,216 
Downward changes for observable prices
(2,799)(3,898)
(4)Investments classified as other equity securities (fair value accounting) represent shares held in public companies as a result of exercising public equity warrant assets, direct equity investments in public companies held by our consolidated funds, and exchange traded funds held by SVB Leerink. Changes in equity securities measured at fair value are recognized through net income.
(5)The following table shows the carrying value and our ownership percentage of each investment at December 31, 2020 and 2019 (equity method accounting):
 December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)AmountOwnership %AmountOwnership %
Venture capital and private equity fund investments:
Strategic Investors Fund II, LP$3,705 8.6 %$3,612 8.6 %
Strategic Investors Fund III, LP16,110 5.9 15,668 5.9 
Strategic Investors Fund IV, LP25,169 5.0 27,064 5.0 
Strategic Investors Fund V funds67,052 Various46,830 Various
CP II, LP (i)
7,887 5.1 5,907 5.1 
Other venture capital and private equity fund investments
242,269 Various116,286 Various
 Total venture capital and private equity fund investments$362,192 $215,367 
Debt funds:
Gold Hill Capital 2008, LP (ii)$3,941 15.5 %$5,525 15.5 %
Other debt funds1,503 Various1,746 Various
Total debt funds$5,444 $7,271 
Other investments:
SPD Silicon Valley Bank Co., Ltd.$115,232 50.0 %$74,190 50.0 %
Other investments87,577 Various78,673 Various
Total other investments$202,809 $152,863 
(i)Our ownership includes direct ownership interest of 1.3 percent and indirect ownership interest of 3.8 percent through our investments in Strategic Investors Fund II, LP.
(ii)Our ownership includes direct ownership interest of 11.5 percent in the fund and an indirect interest in the fund through our investment in Gold Hill Capital 2008, LLC of 4.0 percent.

(6)The following table presents the balances of our investments in qualified affordable housing projects and related unfunded commitments included as a component of "other liabilities" on our consolidated balance sheets at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Investments in qualified affordable housing projects, net$616,188 $458,476 
Other liabilities 370,208 302,031 
The following table presents other information relating to our investments in qualified affordable housing projects for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Tax credits and other tax benefits recognized$56,969 $35,037 $24,047 
Amortization expense included in provision for income taxes (i)43,875 28,267 18,876 
(i)All investments are amortized using the proportional amortization method and amortization expense is included in the provision for income taxes.
Net Gains on Non-marketable and Other Equity Securities
The following table presents the net gains and losses on non-marketable and other equity securities in 2020, 2019 and 2018 as recorded in the line item “Gains on investment securities, net," a component of noninterest income:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Net gains (losses) on non-marketable and other equity securities:
Non-marketable securities (fair value accounting):
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments
$32,439 $22,507 $20,999 
Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments59,909 31,482 39,075 
Other investments without a readily determinable fair value253 2,742 3,206 
Other equity securities in public companies (fair value accounting)104,865 7,772 (25,483)
Non-marketable securities (equity method accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments161,828 73,813 49,341 
Debt funds(403)1,647 541 
Other investments696 (1,388)1,155 
Total net gains on non-marketable and other equity securities $359,587 $138,575 $88,834 
Less: realized net gains (losses) on sales of non-marketable and other equity securities23,344 4,744 (26,097)
Net gains on non-marketable and other equity securities still held$336,243 $133,831 $114,931 
A summary of gains and losses on investment securities for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
  Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net$359,587 $138,575 $88,834 
Gains (losses) on sales of available-for-sale debt securities, net61,165 (3,905)(740)
Total gains on investment securities, net$420,752 $134,670 $88,094 
Debt Securities, Held-to-maturity, Allowance for Credit Loss The following table summarizes the activity relating to our allowance for credit losses for HTM securities for 2020:
Year ended December 31, 2020:Beginning Balance December 31, 2019Day One Impact of Adopting ASC 326Provision for HTM SecuritiesEnding Balance December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)
Municipal bonds and notes
$— $174 $218 $392 
Total allowance for credit losses
$— $174 $218 $392 
Debt Securities, Held-to-maturity, Credit Quality Indicator
Credit Quality Indicators
On a quarterly basis, management monitors the credit quality for HTM securities through the use of standard credit ratings. The following table summarizes our amortized cost of HTM securities aggregated by credit quality indicator at December 31, 2020:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020
Municipal bonds and notes:
Aaa$2,070,311 
Aa11,144,500 
Aa2420,383 
Total $3,635,194 
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Receivables [Abstract]  
Composition of Loans at Amortized Cost Basis Broken Out by Risk-Based Segment
The composition of loans at amortized cost basis broken out by risk-based segment at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, is presented in the following table:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Global fund banking$25,543,198 $17,696,794 
Investor dependent:
Early stage1,485,866 1,624,221 
Mid stage1,564,870 1,047,398 
Later stage1,921,082 1,663,576 
Total investor dependent4,971,818 4,335,195 
Cash flow dependent:
Sponsor led buyout1,989,173 2,185,497 
Other2,945,360 2,238,741 
Total cash flow dependent4,934,533 4,424,238 
Private bank (1) (5)4,901,056 3,492,269 
Balance sheet dependent2,191,023 1,286,153 
Premium wine (1) (5)1,052,643 1,062,264 
Other (1) (5)27,687 867,723 
SBA loans1,559,530 — 
Total loans (2) (3) (4)$45,181,488 $33,164,636 
Allowance for credit losses(447,765)(304,924)
Net loans$44,733,723 $32,859,712 
(1)As of December 31, 2020, as a result of enhanced portfolio characteristic definitions for our risk-based segments, loans in the amount of $427 million and $53 million that would have been reported in Other under historical definitions, are now being reported in our Private Bank and Premium Wine risk-based segments, respectively.
(2)Total loans at amortized cost is net of unearned income of $226 million and $163 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
(3)Included within our total loan portfolio are credit card loans of $400 million and $395 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
(4)Included within our total loan portfolio are construction loans of $118 million and $183 million at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
(5)Of our total loans, the table below includes those secured by real estate at amortized cost at December 31, 2020 and 2019 and were comprised of the following:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Real estate secured loans:
Private bank:
Loans for personal residence
$3,392,237 $2,829,880 
Loans to eligible employees
481,098 401,396 
Home equity lines of credit
42,449 55,461 
Other
142,895 38,880 
Total private bank loans secured by real estate
$4,058,679 $3,325,617 
Premium wine
824,008 820,730 
Other
56,882 — 
Total real estate secured loans$4,939,569 $4,146,347 
Credit Quality Indicators, Broken Out by Risk-Based Segments and Vintage Year
The following table summarizes the credit quality indicators, broken out by risk-based segment, as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)PassCriticizedNonperforming (Nonaccrual)Total
December 31, 2020
Global fund banking$25,537,354 $5,833 $11 $25,543,198 
Investor dependent:
Early stage1,288,897 178,629 18,340 1,485,866 
Mid stage1,420,788 140,026 4,056 1,564,870 
Later stage1,744,662 147,763 28,657 1,921,082 
Total investor dependent4,454,347 466,418 51,053 4,971,818 
Cash flow dependent:
Sponsor led buyout1,795,972 153,205 39,996 1,989,173 
Other2,677,371 261,985 6,004 2,945,360 
Total cash flow dependent4,473,343 415,190 46,000 4,934,533 
Private bank4,862,176 32,728 6,152 4,901,056 
Balance sheet dependent2,104,645 86,378 — 2,191,023 
Premium wine910,397 141,248 998 1,052,643 
Other27,594 63 30 27,687 
SBA loans1,455,990 103,540 — 1,559,530 
Total loans (1)$43,825,846 $1,251,398 $104,244 $45,181,488 
December 31, 2019
Global fund banking$17,708,550 $4,247 $— $17,712,797 
Investor dependent
Early stage1,436,022 206,310 11,093 1,653,425 
Mid stage924,002 125,451 17,330 1,066,783 
Later stage1,490,561 201,819 6,296 1,698,676 
Total investor dependent3,850,585 533,580 34,719 4,418,884 
Cash flow dependent
Sponsor led buyout2,039,847 118,588 44,585 2,203,020 
Other2,141,766 93,400 17,681 2,252,847 
Total cash flow dependent4,181,613 211,988 62,266 4,455,867 
Private bank3,472,138 11,601 5,480 3,489,219 
Balance sheet dependent1,231,961 65,343 — 1,297,304 
Premium wine1,026,973 36,335 204 1,063,512 
Other890,059 62 — 890,121 
Total loans (1)$32,361,879 $863,156 $102,669 $33,327,704 
(1)As of December 31, 2020, loan amounts are disclosed using the amortized cost basis as a result of the adoption of CECL. Prior period loan amounts are disclosed using the gross basis in accordance with the previous methodology.
Credit Quality Indicators, Broken Out by Risk-Based Segments and Vintage Year
The following table summarizes the credit quality indicators, broken out by risk-based segments and vintage year, as of December 31, 2020:
Term Loans by Origination Year
(Dollars in thousands)20202019201820172016PriorRevolving LoansRevolving Loans Converted to Term LoansTotal
Global fund banking:
Risk rating:
Pass
$439,494 $48,297 $68,491 $22,878 $2,389 $5,999 $24,947,428 $2,378 $25,537,354 
Criticized
—————— 410 5,423 5,833 
Nonperforming
38———— — — 11 
Total global fund banking$439,497 $48,305 $68,491 $22,878 $2,389 $5,999 $24,947,838 $7,801 $25,543,198 
Investor dependent:
Early stage:
Risk rating:
Pass
$667,006 $370,189 $120,920 $32,163 $1,234 $405 $96,363 $617 $1,288,897 
Criticized
46,889 72,495 26,170 10,204 3,557 334 18,980 — 178,629 
Nonperforming
2,438 9,354 5,368 441 — — 739 — 18,340 
Total early stage$716,333 $452,038 $152,458 $42,808 $4,791 $739 $116,082 $617 $1,485,866 
Mid stage:
Risk rating:
Pass
$840,431 $301,905 $145,588 $22,834 $5,086 $1,026 $101,423 $2,495 $1,420,788 
Criticized
43,288 48,294 26,023 8,242 — 4,998 9,181 — 140,026 
Nonperforming
10 614 218 2,539 — 675 — — 4,056 
Total mid stage$883,729 $350,813 $171,829 $33,615 $5,086 $6,699 $110,604 $2,495 $1,564,870 
Later stage:
Risk rating:
Pass
$905,468 $393,584 $170,128 $37,967 $11 $8,087 $224,432 $4,985 $1,744,662 
Criticized
22,286 55,254 30,252 1,142 — 1,547 37,282 — 147,763 
Nonperforming
16,691 1,797 3,522 — — — 6,647 — 28,657 
Total later stage$944,445 $450,635 $203,902 $39,109 $11 $9,634 $268,361 $4,985 $1,921,082 
Total investor dependent$2,544,507 $1,253,486 $528,189 $115,532 $9,888 $17,072 $495,047 $8,097 $4,971,818 
Cash flow dependent:
Sponsor led buyout:
Risk rating:
Pass
$791,480 $451,561 $273,719 $166,820 $36,900 $— $75,492 $— $1,795,972 
Criticized
500 70,324 39,020 21,607 13,003 — 8,751 — 153,205 
Nonperforming
33 11,869 16,068 7,177 — — 4,849 — 39,996 
Total sponsor led buyout
$792,013 $533,754 $328,807 $195,604 $49,903 $— $89,092 $— $1,989,173 
Other
Risk rating:
Pass
$879,542 $513,242 $179,169 $133,235 $38,808 $101 $933,274 $— $2,677,371 
Criticized
19,246 67,854 33,779 4,477 — — 136,629 — 261,985 
Nonperforming
— — 4,552 — — — 1,452 — 6,004 
Total other$898,788 $581,096 $217,500 $137,712 $38,808 $101 $1,071,355 $— $2,945,360 
Total cash flow dependent$1,690,801 $1,114,850 $546,307 $333,316 $88,711 $101 $1,160,447 $— $4,934,533 
Private bank:
Risk rating:
Pass
$1,878,184 $1,152,903 $394,351 $352,857 $294,870 $405,909 $382,442 $660 $4,862,176 
Criticized
3,480 9,985 4,486 1,202 5,101 7,725 749 — 32,728 
Nonperforming
— 563 3,197 — — 1,679 713 — 6,152 
Total private bank$1,881,664 $1,163,451 $402,034 $354,059 $299,971 $415,313 $383,904 $660 $4,901,056 
Balance sheet dependent:
Risk rating:
Pass
$837,613 $190,140 $198,532 $19,213 $— $— $857,642 $1,505 $2,104,645 
Criticized
55,887 3,733 171 — — — 26,587 — 86,378 
Nonperforming
— — — — — — — — — 
Total balance sheet dependent
$893,500 $193,873 $198,703 $19,213 $— $— $884,229 $1,505 $2,191,023 
Premium wine:
Risk rating:
Pass
$126,476 $193,744 $70,783 $79,088 $114,812 $153,841 $135,461 $36,192 $910,397 
Criticized
17,882 24,286 35,737 10,300 13,559 5,766 33,718 — 141,248 
Nonperforming
— — — — 998 — — — 998 
Total Premium wine$144,358 $218,030 $106,520 $89,388 $129,369 $159,607 $169,179 $36,192 $1,052,643 
Other:
Risk rating:
Pass
$— $16,251 $10,910 $— $— $433 $— $— $27,594 
Criticized
3 — — — — — 60 — 63 
Nonperforming
— 30 — — — — — — 30 
Total other
$3 $16,281 $10,910 $— $— $433 $60 $— $27,687 
SBA loans:
Risk rating:
Pass
$1,455,990 $— $— $— $— $— $— $— $1,455,990 
Criticized
103,540 — — — — — — — 103,540 
Nonperforming
— — — — — — — — — 
Total SBA loans
$1,559,530 $— $— $— $— $— $— $— $1,559,530 
Total loans$9,153,860 $4,008,276 $1,861,154 $934,386 $530,328 $598,525 $28,040,704 $54,255 $45,181,488 
Activity Relating to Our Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans
The following tables summarize the activity relating to our allowance for credit losses for loans for 2020, 2019 and 2018 broken out by portfolio segment:
Year ended December 31, 2020Beginning Balance December 31, 2019Impact of adopting ASC 326Charge-offsRecoveriesProvision for (Reduction of) LoansForeign Currency Translation AdjustmentsEnding Balance December 31, 2020
(Dollars in thousands)
Global fund banking$107,285 $(69,888)$— $— $8,367 $(180)$45,584 
Investor dependent:
Early stage26,245 39,911 (35,305)10,821 45,825 (823)86,674 
Growth stage56,125 31,713 (53,338)14,042 79,145 (1,004)126,683 
Total investor dependent82,370 71,624 (88,643)24,863 124,970 (1,827)213,357 
Cash flow and balance sheet dependent80,820 (1,269)(11,187)2,846 53,369 (330)124,249 
Private bank21,551 12,615 (1,616)30 21,329 (280)53,629 
Premium wine and other12,898 12,382 (1,458)1,279 (20,719)4,654 9,036 
SBA loans— — — — 1,910 — 1,910 
Total allowance for credit losses$304,924 $25,464 $(102,904)$29,018 $189,226 $2,037 $447,765 
Year ended December 31, 2019Beginning Balance December 31, 2018Charge-offsRecoveriesProvision for (Reduction of) LoansForeign Currency Translation AdjustmentsEnding Balance December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)
Global fund banking$93,781 $(2,047)$2,047 $13,534 $(30)$107,285 
Investor dependent:
Early stage25,885 (31,568)9,088 22,462 378 26,245 
Growth stage46,216 (53,255)4,945 58,337 (118)56,125 
Total investor dependent72,101 (84,823)14,033 80,799 260 82,370 
Cash flow and balance sheet dependent87,735 (3,118)4,683 (9,093)613 80,820 
Private Bank20,583 (1,031)255 1,865 (121)21,551 
Premium wine and other6,703 (1,584)20 7,078 681 12,898 
Total allowance for credit losses$280,903 $(92,603)$21,038 $94,183 $1,403 $304,924 
Year ended December 31, 2018:Beginning Balance December 31, 2017Charge-offsRecoveriesProvision for LoansForeign Currency Translation AdjustmentsEnding Balance December 31, 2018
(Dollars in thousands)
Global fund banking$82,468 $(112)$— $11,698 $(273)$93,781 
Investor dependent:
Early stage22,742 (32,495)6,154 29,788 (304)25,885 
Growth stage38,280 (16,727)2,873 22,332 (542)46,216 
Total investor dependent61,022 (49,222)9,027 52,120 (846)72,101 
Cash flow and balance sheet dependent87,620 (16,223)2,064 15,304 (1,030)87,735 
Private Bank16,441 (289)486 3,986 (41)20,583 
Premium wine and other7,473 (2,071)59 1,184 58 6,703 
Total allowance for credit losses$255,024 $(67,917)$11,636 $84,292 $(2,132)$280,903 
Aging of Gross Loans, Broken out by Portfolio Segment and Class of Financing Receivable
The following table summarizes the aging of our loans broken out by risk-based segments as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)30 - 59
  Days Past  
Due		60 - 89
  Days Past  
Due		Equal to or Greater
Than 90
  Days Past  
Due		  Total Past  
Due		Current  Total   Loans Past Due
90 Days or
More Still
Accruing
Interest
December 31, 2020:
Global fund banking$27,606 $8 $11 $27,625 $25,515,573 $25,543,198 $— 
Investor dependent:
Early stage6,320 1,840 202 8,362 1,477,504 1,485,866 — 
Mid stage5,984 238 907 7,129 1,557,741 1,564,870 — 
Later stage5,363 — — 5,363 1,915,719 1,921,082 — 
Total investor dependent17,667 2,078 1,109 20,854 4,950,964 4,971,818 — 
Cash flow dependent:
Sponsor led buyout34 — — 34 1,989,139 1,989,173 — 
Other6,510 58 — 6,568 2,938,792 2,945,360 — 
Total cash flow dependent6,544 58 — 6,602 4,927,931 4,934,533 — 
Private bank4,292 3,990 — 8,282 4,892,774 4,901,056 — 
Balance sheet dependent987 1,089 — 2,076 2,188,947 2,191,023 — 
Premium wine3,168 — 998 4,166 1,048,477 1,052,643 — 
Other3 28 82 113 27,574 27,687 — 
SBA loans— — — — 1,559,530 1,559,530 — 
Total loans (1)$60,267 $7,251 $2,200 $69,718 $45,111,770 $45,181,488 $— 
December 31, 2019:
Global fund banking$97,739 $383 $3,150 $101,272 $17,611,525 $17,712,797 $3,150 
Investor dependent:
Early stage1,307 22,062 723 24,092 1,629,333 1,653,425 — 
Mid stage10,025 6,999 — 17,024 1,049,759 1,066,783 — 
Later stage8,113 500 10,569 19,182 1,679,494 1,698,676 — 
Total investor dependent19,445 29,561 11,292 60,298 4,358,586 4,418,884 — 
Cash flow dependent
Sponsor led buyout— — — — 2,203,020 2,203,020 — 
Other2,426 3,061 2 5,489 2,247,358 2,252,847 — 
Total cash flow dependent2,426 3,061 2 5,489 4,450,378 4,455,867 — 
Private bank6,582 2,049 1,544 10,175 3,479,044 3,489,219 365 
Balance sheet dependent2,731 — — 2,731 1,294,573 1,297,304 — 
Premium wine8,435 3,170 — 11,605 1,051,907 1,063,512 — 
Other17 — — 17 890,104 890,121 — 
Total loans (1)$137,375 $38,224 $15,988 $191,587 $33,136,117 $33,327,704 $3,515 
(1)As of December 31, 2020, loan amounts are disclosed using the amortized cost basis as a result of the adoption of CECL. Prior period loan amounts are disclosed using the gross basis in accordance with the previous methodology.
Nonaccrual Loans with No Allowance for Credit Loss
The following table summarizes our nonaccrual loans with no allowance for credit loss at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)Nonaccrual LoansNonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit LossNonaccrual Loans Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss
Global fund banking$11 $11 $— $— 
Investor dependent:
Early stage18,340 3 11,093 460 
Mid stage4,056 3,159 17,330 274 
Later stage28,657 118 6,296 — 
Total investor dependent51,053 3,280 34,719 734 
Cash flow dependent:
Sponsor led buyout39,996 — 44,585 — 
Other6,004 1,138 17,681 2,782 
Total cash flow dependent46,000 1,138 62,266 2,782 
Private bank6,152 2,393 5,480 3,714 
Balance sheet dependent— — — — 
Premium wine998 998 204 — 
Other30 30 — — 
SBA loans— — — — 
Total nonaccrual loans (1)$104,244 $7,850 $102,669 $7,230 
(1)As of December 31, 2020, loan amounts are disclosed using the amortized cost basis as a result of the adoption of CECL. Prior period loan amounts are disclosed using the gross basis in accordance with the previous methodology.
Summary of Loans Modified in Troubled Debt Restructurings ("TDRs") by Portfolio Segment and Class of Financing Receivables
The following table summarizes our loans modified in TDRs, broken out by risk-based segment, at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Loans modified in TDRs:
Global fund banking$— $— 
Investor dependent
Early stage6,705 9,471 
Mid stage4,050 5,189 
Later stage24,896 23,318 
Total investor dependent35,651 37,978 
Cash flow dependent
Sponsor led buyout21,529 55,443 
Other1,237 — 
Total cash flow dependent22,766 55,443 
Private bank— 2,104 
Balance sheet dependent— — 
Premium wine2,661 13,457 
Other— — 
SBA loans— — 
Total loans modified in TDRs (1)$61,078 $108,982 
(1)As of December 31, 2020, loan amounts are disclosed using the amortized cost basis as a result of the adoption of CECL. Prior period loan amounts are disclosed using the gross basis in accordance with the previous methodology.
Recorded Investment in Loans Modified in TDRs
The following table summarizes the recorded investment in loans modified in TDRs, broken out by risk-based segment, for modifications made during 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Loans modified in TDRs during the period:
Global fund banking$— $— $— 
Investor dependent
Early stage6,112 9,471 660 
Mid stage897 3,445 6,657 
Later stage24,896 16,293 21,051 
Total investor dependent31,905 29,209 28,368 
Cash flow dependent
Sponsor led buyout21,529 48,153 — 
Other1,237 — 12,386 
Total cash flow dependent22,766 48,153 12,386 
Private bank— 1,792 320 
Balance sheet dependent— — — 
Premium wine998 11,017 — 
Other— — — 
SBA loans— — — 
Total loans modified in TDRs during the period (1) (2)$55,669 $90,171 $41,074 
(1)For the year ended December 31, 2020, loan amounts are disclosed using the amortized cost basis as a result of the adoption of CECL. Prior period loan amounts are disclosed using the gross basis in accordance with the previous methodology.
(2)There were $31.1 million, $11.3 million and $4.6 million of partial charge-offs during 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Recorded Investment in Loans Modified in TDRs within Previous 12 months Subsequently Defaulted
The following table summarizes the recorded investment in loans modified in TDRs within the previous 12 months that subsequently defaulted during 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted during the period:
Global fund banking$— $— $— 
Investor dependent
Early stage— — — 
Mid stage— — — 
Later stage— 10,639 — 
Total investor dependent— 10,639 — 
Cash flow dependent
Sponsor led buyout— 37,294 
Other487 — — 
Total cash flow dependent487 37,294 — 
Private bank— — — 
Balance sheet dependent— — — 
Premium wine998 — — 
Other— — — 
SBA loans
— — — 
Total TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period (1)
$1,485 $47,933 $— 
(1)For the year ended December 31, 2020, loan amounts are disclosed using the amortized cost basis as a result of the adoption of CECL. Prior period loan amounts are disclosed using the gross basis in accordance with the previous methodology.
Allowance for Unfunded Commitments
The following table summarizes the activity relating to our allowance for credit losses for unfunded credit commitments for 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Allowance for credit losses: unfunded credit commitments, beginning balance$67,656 $55,183 $51,770 
Impact of adopting ASC 32622,826 — — 
Provision for unfunded credit commitments30,066 12,233 3,578 
Foreign currency translation adjustments248 240 (165)
Allowance for credit losses: unfunded credit commitments, ending balance (1)$120,796 $67,656 $55,183 
(1)The “allowance for credit losses: unfunded credit commitments” is included as a component of “other liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheets. See Note 21—“Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments” for additional disclosures related to our commitments to extend credit.
Impaired Loans and Allowance for Loan Losses, Broken out by Portfolio Segment and Class of Financing Receivable
The following table summarizes our impaired loans as they relate to our allowance for loan losses, broken out by our previous portfolio segments and classes of financing receivable for the year ended December 31, 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Impaired loans for 
which there is a related allowance for loan losses		Impaired loans for 
which there is no related allowance for loan losses		Total carrying value of impaired loansTotal unpaid principal of impaired loans   
December 31, 2019:
Commercial loans:
Software/internet$64,100 $31,472 $95,572 $109,736 
Hardware2,143 3,315 5,458 10,049 
Private equity/venture capital— — — — 
Life science/healthcare25,941 5,671 31,612 70,600 
Premium wine204 11,718 11,922 12,010 
Other1,284 1,681 2,965 3,114 
Total commercial loans93,672 53,857 147,529 205,509 
Consumer loans:
Real estate secured loans1,766 3,714 5,480 8,527 
Total consumer loans1,766 3,714 5,480 8,527 
Total$95,438 $57,571 $153,009 $214,036 
Average Impaired Loans, Broken out by Portfolio Segment and Class of Financing Receivable
The following table summarizes our average impaired loans and interest income recognized on impaired loans, broken out by our previous portfolio segments and classes of financing receivable during 2019 and 2018:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		Average impaired loansInterest income recognized on impaired loans
2019201820192018
Commercial loans:
Software/internet$88,628 $112,493 $2,813 $1,513 
Hardware12,500 28,540 464 312 
Private equity/venture capital2,264 1,327 — — 
Life science/healthcare44,827 30,144 919 756 
Premium wine2,912 2,605 311 68 
Other2,050 171 21 — 
Total commercial loans153,181 175,280 4,528 2,649 
Consumer loans:
Real estate secured loans7,159 4,028 54 15 
Other consumer loans7 358 — — 
Total consumer loans7,166 4,386 54 15 
Total average impaired loans$160,347 $179,666 $4,582 $2,664 
Allowance for Loan Losses Individually and Collectively Evaluated for Impairment
The following table summarizes the allowance for loan losses individually and collectively evaluated for impairment as of December 31, 2019, broken out by our previous portfolio segments:
 December 31, 2019
Individually Evaluated for ImpairmentCollectively Evaluated for  
Impairment
(Dollars in thousands)Allowance for loan lossesRecorded investment in loansAllowance for loan lossesRecorded investment in loans
Commercial loans:
Software/internet$26,613 $95,572 $73,610 $6,103,976 
Hardware1,214 5,458 18,430 1,365,701 
Private equity/venture capital— — 115,805 17,801,324 
Life science/healthcare16,414 31,612 22,831 2,336,436 
Premium wine204 11,922 4,944 1,076,295 
Other203 2,965 3,150 556,689 
Total commercial loans44,648 147,529 238,770 29,240,421 
Total consumer loans211 5,480 21,295 3,771,206 
Total$44,859 $153,009 $260,065 $33,011,627 
v3.20.4
Premises and Equipment (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Schedule of Premises and Equipment
Premises and equipment at December 31, 2020 and 2019 consisted of the following:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Computer software$296,324 $261,643 
Computer hardware91,870 82,643 
Leasehold improvements124,057 121,907 
Furniture and equipment50,036 46,300 
Total562,287 512,493 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization(386,469)(350,617)
Premises and equipment, net$175,818 $161,876 
v3.20.4
Leases (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]  
Schedule of Lease Assets And Liabilities
Total recorded balances for the lease assets and liabilities are as follows:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Assets:
Right-of-use assets - operating leases$209,932 $197,365 
Liabilities:
Lease liabilities - operating leases259,554 218,847 
Lease Expense Components
The components of our lease cost and supplemental cash flow information related to leases for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
December 31,
 (Dollars in thousands)20202019
Operating lease cost$69,249 $41,049 
Short-term lease cost1,404 1,823 
Variable lease cost3,692 3,477 
Less: sublease income
(2,265)(4,492)
Total lease expense, net
$72,080 $41,857 
Supplemental cash flows information:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Cash paid for operating leases
$50,194 $44,976 
Noncash items during the period:
Lease obligations in exchange for obtaining right-of-use assets:
Operating leases
$75,244 $33,167 
The table below presents additional information related to the Company's leases as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31,
20202019
Weighted-average remaining term (in years) - operating leases6.056.29
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases (1) 2.38 %2.92 %
(1)The incremental borrowing rate used to calculate the lease liability was determined based on the facts and circumstances of the economic environment and the Company’s credit standing as of the effective date of ASC 842. Additionally, the total lease term and total lease payments were also considered in determining the rate. Based on these considerations the Company identified credit terms available under its existing credit lines which represent a collateralized borrowing rate that has varying credit terms that could be matched to total lease terms and total lease payments in ultimately determining the implied borrowing rate in each lease contract.
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity
The following table presents our undiscounted future cash payments for our operating lease liabilities as of December 31, 2020:
Years ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands) 		Operating Leases
2021$51,547 
202248,847 
202348,190 
202442,418 
202532,080 
2026 and thereafter53,842 
Total lease payments$276,924 
Less: imputed interest(17,370)
Total lease liabilities$259,554 
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Goodwill The changes in goodwill were as follows for the year ended December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Goodwill
Beginning balance at December 31, 2018$— 
Acquisitions137,823 
Ending balance at December 31, 2019$137,823 
Acquisitions4,862 
Ending balance at December 31, 2020$142,685 
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Acquired as Part of Business Combination
The following table presents the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of other intangible assets as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
(Dollars in thousands)Gross AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying AmountGross AmountAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying Amount
Other intangible assets:
Customer relationships$42,000 $7,636 $34,364 $42,000 $3,818 $38,182 
Other36,300 9,229 27,071 18,900 7,665 11,235 
Total other intangible assets, net$78,300 $16,865 $61,435 $60,900 $11,483 $49,417 
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense
For the year ended December 31, 2020, we recorded amortization expense of $5.4 million. Assuming no future impairments of other intangible assets or additional acquisitions or dispositions, the following table presents the Company's future expected amortization expense for other intangible assets that will continue to be amortized as of December 31, 2020:
Years ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands) 		Other
Intangible Assets
2021$8,217 
20228,141 
20238,141 
20248,141 
20256,900 
2026 and thereafter21,895 
Total future amortization expense$61,435 
v3.20.4
Deposits (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Deposits [Abstract]  
Composition of Deposits
The following table presents the composition of our deposits at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Noninterest-bearing demand$66,519,240 $40,841,570 
Interest-bearing checking and savings accounts4,800,831 568,256 
Money market28,406,195 17,749,736 
Money market deposits in foreign offices616,570 352,437 
Sweep deposits in foreign offices950,510 2,057,715 
Time688,461 188,093 
Total deposits$101,981,807 $61,757,807 
v3.20.4
Short-Term Borrowings and Long-Term Debt (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Outstanding Short Term Borrowings and Long Term Debt
The following table represents outstanding short-term borrowings and long-term debt at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
   Carrying Value
(Dollars in thousands)MaturityPrincipal value at December 31, 2020December 31,
2020		December 31,
2019
Short-term borrowings:
Other short-term borrowings(1)$20,553 $20,553 $17,430 
Total short-term borrowings$20,553 $17,430 
Long-term debt:
3.50% Senior Notes
January 29, 2025$350,000 $348,348 $347,987 
3.125% Senior Notes
June 5, 2030500,000 495,280 — 
Total long-term debt$843,628 $347,987 
(1)Represents cash collateral received from certain counterparties in relation to market value exposures of derivative contracts in our favor.
Aggregate Annual Maturities of Long-Term Debt Obligations
The aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt obligations as of December 31, 2020 are as follows:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		Amount
2021$— 
2022— 
2023— 
2024— 
2025348,348 
2026 and thereafter495,280 
Total$843,628 
v3.20.4
Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Total Notional or Contractual Amounts, Fair Value, Collateral and Net Exposure of Derivative Financial Instruments
The total notional or contractual amounts and fair value of our derivative financial instruments at December 31, 2020 and 2019 were as follows:
 December 31, 2020December 31, 2019
Notional or
Contractual
Amount		Fair ValueNotional or
Contractual
Amount		Fair Value
(Dollars in thousands)Derivative Assets (1)Derivative Liabilities (1)Derivative Assets (1)Derivative Liabilities (1)
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
 Interest rate risks:
Interest rate swaps
$— $— $— $1,915,000 $22,676 $— 
Interest rate swaps
— — — 3,085,000 — 25,623 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 Currency exchange risks:
Foreign exchange forwards68,381 306 — — — — 
Foreign exchange forwards566,988 — 20,566 300,250 — 2,154 
 Other derivative instruments:
Equity warrant assets253,153 203,438 — 225,893 165,473 — 
Client foreign exchange forwards8,025,973 214,969 — 4,661,517 114,546 — 
Client foreign exchange forwards7,490,723 — 188,565 4,326,059 — 94,745 
Client foreign currency options97,529 1,702 — 154,985 1,308 — 
Client foreign currency options97,522 — 1,702 154,985 — 1,308 
Client interest rate derivatives1,082,265 67,854 — 1,275,190 28,811 — 
Client interest rate derivatives (2)1,250,975 — 26,646 1,372,914 — 14,154 
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments488,269 237,479 310,138 112,361 
Total derivatives
$488,269 $237,479 $332,814 $137,984 
(1)Derivative assets and liabilities are included in "accrued interest receivable and other assets" and "other liabilities", respectively, on our consolidated balance sheets.
(2)The amount reported reflects reductions of approximately $45.4 million and $17.4 million of derivative liabilities at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, reflecting variation margin treated as settlement of the related derivative fair values for legal and accounting purposes as required by central clearing houses.
Summary of Derivative Activity and Related Impact on Consolidated Statements of Income
A summary of our derivative activity and the related impact on our consolidated statements of income for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
  Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)Statement of income location   202020192018
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
 Interest rate risks:
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into incomeInterest income—loans$49,928 $(5,358)$— 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 Currency exchange risks:
Gains (losses) on revaluations of internal foreign currency instruments, netOther noninterest income$39,247 $1,444 $(373)
(Losses) gains on internal foreign exchange forward contracts, netOther noninterest income(39,716)(1,853)52 
Net losses associated with internal currency risk$(469)$(409)$(321)
 Other derivative instruments:
Gains (losses) on revaluations of client foreign currency instruments, net Other noninterest income$2,560 $(15,146)$4,998 
(Losses) gains on client foreign exchange forward contracts, netOther noninterest income(3,017)15,900 (4,011)
Net (losses) gains associated with client currency risk $(457)$754 $987 
Net gains on equity warrant assetsGains on equity warrant assets, net$237,428 $138,078 $89,142 
Net gains (losses) on other derivatives Other noninterest income$28,056 $(1,190)$(179)
Offsetting Assets The following table summarizes our assets subject to enforceable master netting arrangements as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Gross Amounts of Recognized AssetsGross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial PositionNet Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial PositionGross Amounts Not Offset in the Statement of Financial Position But Subject to Master Netting ArrangementsNet Amount
Financial InstrumentsCash Collateral Received (1)
December 31, 2020:
Derivative Assets:
Interest rate swaps
$— $— $— $— $— $— 
Foreign exchange forwards
215,275 — 215,275 (75,983)(20,550)118,742 
Foreign currency options
1,702 — 1,702 (1,045)(3)654 
Client interest rate derivatives
67,854 — 67,854 (67,854)— — 
Total derivative assets:284,831 — 284,831 (144,882)(20,553)119,396 
Reverse repurchase, securities borrowing, and similar arrangements
226,847 — 226,847 (226,847)— — 
Total$511,678 $— $511,678 $(371,729)$(20,553)$119,396 
December 31, 2019:
Derivative Assets:
Interest rate swaps$22,676 $— $22,676 $(22,598)$— $78 
Foreign exchange forwards
114,546 — 114,546 (36,855)(17,095)60,596 
Foreign currency options
1,308 — 1,308 (848)(335)125 
Client interest rate derivatives
28,811 — 28,811 (28,811)— — 
Total derivative assets:167,341 — 167,341 (89,112)(17,430)60,799 
Reverse repurchase, securities borrowing, and similar arrangements
289,340 — 289,340 (289,340)— — 
Total$456,681 $— $456,681 $(378,452)$(17,430)$60,799 
(1)Cash collateral received from our counterparties in relation to market value exposures of derivative contracts in our favor is recorded as a component of “short-term borrowings” on our consolidated balance sheets.
Offsetting Liabilities
The following table summarizes our liabilities subject to enforceable master netting arrangements as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Gross Amounts of Recognized LiabilitiesGross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial PositionNet Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial PositionGross Amounts Not Offset in the Statement of Financial Position But Subject to Master Netting ArrangementsNet Amount
Financial InstrumentsCash Collateral Pledged (1)
December 31, 2020:
Derivative Liabilities:
   Interest rate swaps$— $— $— $— $— $— 
   Foreign exchange forwards209,131 — 209,131 (84,547)(45,367)79,217 
   Foreign currency options1,702 — 1,702 (645)(8)1,049 
   Client interest rate derivatives26,646 — 26,646 — (26,100)546 
Total derivative liabilities:237,479 — 237,479 (85,192)(71,475)80,812 
Repurchase, securities lending, and similar arrangements
— — — — — — 
Total$237,479 $— $237,479 $(85,192)$(71,475)$80,812 
December 31, 2019:
Derivative Liabilities:
   Interest rate swaps$25,623 $— $25,623 $(22,676)$(2,947)$— 
   Foreign exchange forwards96,899 — 96,899 (33,314)(22,030)41,555 
   Foreign currency options1,308 — 1,308 (531)— 777 
   Client interest rate derivatives14,154 — 14,154 — (13,936)218 
Total derivative liabilities:137,984 — 137,984 (56,521)(38,913)42,550 
Repurchase, securities lending, and similar arrangements
— — — — — — 
Total$137,984 $— $137,984 $(56,521)$(38,913)$42,550 
(1)Cash collateral pledged to our counterparties in relation to market value exposures of derivative contracts in a liability position and repurchase agreements are recorded as a component of “cash and cash equivalents" on our consolidated balance sheets.
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Summary of Noninterest Income Included below is a summary of noninterest income for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Noninterest income:
Gains on investment securities, net$420,752 $134,670 $88,094 
Gains on equity warrant assets, net237,428 138,078 89,142 
Client investment fees132,200 182,068 130,360 
Foreign exchange fees178,733 159,262 138,812 
Credit card fees97,737 118,719 94,072 
Deposit service charges90,336 89,200 76,097 
Lending related fees57,533 49,920 41,949 
Letters of credit and standby letters of credit fees46,659 42,669 34,600 
Investment banking revenue413,985 195,177 — 
Commissions66,640 56,346 — 
Other98,145 55,370 51,858 
Total noninterest income$1,840,148 $1,221,479 $744,984 
Summary of Gains and Losses on Investment Securities
The following table presents the net gains and losses on non-marketable and other equity securities in 2020, 2019 and 2018 as recorded in the line item “Gains on investment securities, net," a component of noninterest income:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Net gains (losses) on non-marketable and other equity securities:
Non-marketable securities (fair value accounting):
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments
$32,439 $22,507 $20,999 
Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments59,909 31,482 39,075 
Other investments without a readily determinable fair value253 2,742 3,206 
Other equity securities in public companies (fair value accounting)104,865 7,772 (25,483)
Non-marketable securities (equity method accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments161,828 73,813 49,341 
Debt funds(403)1,647 541 
Other investments696 (1,388)1,155 
Total net gains on non-marketable and other equity securities $359,587 $138,575 $88,834 
Less: realized net gains (losses) on sales of non-marketable and other equity securities23,344 4,744 (26,097)
Net gains on non-marketable and other equity securities still held$336,243 $133,831 $114,931 
A summary of gains and losses on investment securities for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
  Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net$359,587 $138,575 $88,834 
Gains (losses) on sales of available-for-sale debt securities, net61,165 (3,905)(740)
Total gains on investment securities, net$420,752 $134,670 $88,094 
Components of Gains on Equity Warrant Assets A summary of net gains on equity warrant assets for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
  Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Equity warrant assets:
Gains on exercises, net$179,648 $107,168 $58,186 
Terminations(1,948)(3,502)(5,964)
Changes in fair value, net59,728 34,412 36,920 
Total net gains on equity warrant assets $237,428 $138,078 $89,142 
Components of Asset Management Fees A summary of client investment fees by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Client investment fees by type:
Sweep money market fees$74,176 $104,236 $75,654 
Asset management fees (1)42,768 28,665 23,882 
Repurchase agreement fees15,256 49,167 30,824 
Total client investment fees (2)$132,200 $182,068 $130,360 
(1)Represents fees earned from investments in third-party money market mutual funds and fixed-income securities managed by SVB Asset Management.
(2)Represents fees earned on client investment funds which are maintained at third-party financial institutions and are not recorded on our balance sheet.
Components of Foreign Exchange Fees A summary of foreign exchange fee income by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Foreign exchange fees by instrument type:
Spot contract commissions$157,852 $145,915 $127,459 
Forward contract commissions19,849 13,068 10,940 
Option premium fees1,032 279 413 
Total foreign exchange fees$178,733 $159,262 $138,812 
Components of Credit Card Fees A summary of credit card fees by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Credit card fees by instrument type:
Card interchange fees, net $75,562 $93,553 $74,381 
Merchant service fees17,732 18,355 14,420 
Card service fees4,443 6,811 5,271 
Total credit card fees$97,737 $118,719 $94,072 
Components of Lending Related Fees A summary of lending related fees by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Lending related fees by instrument type:
Unused commitment fees$42,399 $34,829 $32,452 
Other 15,134 15,091 9,497 
Total lending related fees$57,533 $49,920 $41,949 
Schedule of Investment Banking Revenue
A summary of investment banking revenue by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
  Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Investment banking revenue:
Underwriting fees$352,951 $153,306 $— 
Advisory fees40,006 37,846 — 
Private placements and other 21,028 4,025 — 
Total investment banking revenue $413,985 $195,177 $— 
Summary of Other Noninterest Income
A summary of other noninterest income by instrument type for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Other noninterest income by instrument type:
Fund management fees$38,960 $32,522 $23,016 
Net (losses) gains on revaluation of foreign currency instruments, net of foreign exchange forward contracts (1)(926)345 666 
Losses on extinguishment of debt— (8,960)— 
Gains from conversion of convertible debt options30,018 — — 
Other service revenue30,093 31,463 28,176 
Total other noninterest income$98,145 $55,370 $51,858 
(1)Represents the net revaluation of client and internal foreign currency denominated financial instruments. We enter into foreign exchange forward contracts to economically reduce our foreign exchange exposure related to client and internal foreign currency denominated financial instruments.
Disaggregation of Revenue
The following tables present our revenues from contracts with customers disaggregated by revenue source and segment for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019, and 2018:
Year ended December 31, 2020Global
Commercial
Bank (2)		SVB Private  
Bank		SVB Capital (2)SVB Leerink (2)Other ItemsTotal      

(Dollars in thousands)
Revenue from contracts with customers:
Client investment fees
$129,378 $2,822 $— $— $— $132,200 
Spot contract commissions
156,725 544 — — 583 157,852 
Card interchange fees, gross
128,239 23 — — 1,545 129,807 
Merchant service fees
17,732 — — — — 17,732 
Deposit service charges
89,565 81 — — 690 90,336 
Investment banking revenue
— — — 413,985 — 413,985 
Commissions
— — — 66,640 — 66,640 
Fund management fees
— — 32,233 6,727 — 38,960 
Performance fees— — 3,601 — — 3,601 
Correspondent bank rebates
5,729 — — — — 5,729 
Total revenue from contracts with customers$527,368 $3,470 $35,834 $487,352 $2,818 $1,056,842 
Revenues outside the scope of ASC 606 (1)78,365 66 190,120 8,624 506,131 783,306 
Total noninterest income$605,733 $3,536 $225,954 $495,976 $508,949 $1,840,148 
(1)Amounts are accounted for under separate guidance than ASC 606.
(2)Global Commercial Bank’s, SVB Capital’s and SVB Leerink's components of noninterest income are shown net of noncontrolling interests. Noncontrolling interest is included within “Other Items."
Year ended December 31, 2019Global
Commercial
Bank (2)		SVB Private  
Bank		SVB Capital (2)SVB Leerink (2)Other ItemsTotal      

(Dollars in thousands)
Revenue from contracts with customers:
Client investment fees $180,152 $1,916 $— $— $— $182,068 
Spot contract commissions
144,930 510 — — 475 145,915 
Card interchange fees, gross
154,197 — — — 756 154,953 
Merchant service fees
18,355 — — — — 18,355 
Deposit service charges
88,136 137 — — 927 89,200 
Investment banking revenue— — — 195,177 — 195,177 
Commissions— — — 56,346 — 56,346 
Fund management fees
— — 26,850 5,672 — 32,522 
Correspondent bank rebates
6,415 — — — — 6,415 
Total revenue from contracts with customers$592,185 $2,563 $26,850 $257,195 $2,158 $880,951 
Revenues outside the scope of ASC 606 (1)45,737 803 95,544 7,321 191,123 340,528 
Total noninterest income$637,922 $3,366 $122,394 $264,516 $193,281 $1,221,479 
(1)Amounts are accounted for under separate guidance than ASC 606.
(2)Global Commercial Bank’s, SVB Capital’s and SVB Leerink's components of noninterest income are shown net of noncontrolling interests. Noncontrolling interest is included within “Other Items."
Year ended December 31, 2018Global
Commercial
Bank (2)		SVB Private  
Bank		SVB Capital (2)Other ItemsTotal      

(Dollars in thousands)
Revenue from contracts with customers:
Client investment fees (3)$128,834 $1,526 $— $— $130,360 
Spot contract commissions
126,445 691 — 323 127,459 
Card interchange fees, gross
134,074 — — 428 134,502 
Merchant service fees
14,415 4 — 1 14,420 
Deposit service charges
74,348 108 — 1,641 76,097 
Fund management fees
— — 23,016 — 23,016 
Correspondent bank rebates
5,802 — — — 5,802 
Total revenue from contracts with customers$483,918 $2,329 $23,016 $2,393 $511,656 
Revenues outside the scope of ASC 606 (1)36,384 (48)78,165 118,827 233,328 
Total noninterest income$520,302 $2,281 $101,181 $121,220 $744,984 
(1)Amounts are accounted for under separate guidance than ASC 606.
(2)Global Commercial Bank’s and SVB Capital’s components of noninterest income are shown net of noncontrolling interests. Noncontrolling interest is included within “Other Items."
v3.20.4
Other Noninterest Expense (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]  
Schedule of Other Noninterest Expense
A summary of other noninterest expense for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Lending and other client related processing costs$29,783 $28,491 $24,237 
Correspondent bank fees15,065 14,503 13,713 
Investment banking activities20,591 13,733 — 
Trade order execution costs11,144 10,813 — 
Data processing services14,910 12,536 10,811 
Telephone8,591 9,861 9,404 
Dues and publications4,251 4,603 4,605 
Postage and supplies2,545 3,198 2,799 
Other83,295 54,841 21,682 
Total other noninterest expense$190,175 $152,579 $87,251 
v3.20.4
Income Taxes (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Components of Provision for Income Taxes
The components of our provision for income taxes for 2020, 2019 and 2018 were as follows:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Current provision:
Federal$299,882 $296,400 $249,358 
State140,794 132,357 123,264 
Deferred expense (benefit):
Federal5,296 (1,530)(11,777)
State1,615 (1,542)(9,284)
Income tax expense$447,587 $425,685 $351,561 
Reconciliation between Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate
Our effective tax rate is calculated by dividing income tax expense by the sum of income before income tax expense and the net income attributable to noncontrolling interests. The reconciliation between the federal statutory income tax rate and our effective income tax rate for 2020, 2019 and 2018, is as follows:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Federal statutory income tax rate21.0 %21.0 %21.0 %
State income taxes, net of the federal tax effect6.8 7.0 7.2 
Meals and entertainment0.1 0.4 0.3 
Disallowed officers' compensation0.2 0.2 0.2 
FDIC premiums0.3 0.2 0.5 
Share-based compensation expense on incentive stock options and ESPP(0.3)(0.6)(1.4)
Qualified affordable housing project tax credits(0.5)(0.3)(0.3)
Tax-exempt interest income(0.8)(0.6)(0.6)
Other, net0.2 (0.1)(0.4)
Effective income tax rate 27.0 %27.2 %26.5 %
Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities)
Deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2020 and 2019, consisted of the following:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Deferred tax assets:
Allowance for credit losses$158,161 $103,267 
Share-based compensation expense15,531 14,233 
State income taxes16,640 16,097 
Accrued compensation44,112 22,578 
Lease liability69,714 60,635 
Other accruals 10,018 12,383 
Net operating loss7,501 6,386 
Goodwill and intangibles3,165 3,141 
Foreign tax credit carryforward 9,028 — 
SBA loan fees6,115 — 
Other8,110 7,923 
Deferred tax assets348,095 246,643 
Valuation allowance(7,094)(5,919)
Net deferred tax assets after valuation allowance341,001 240,724 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Derivative equity warrant assets(71,019)(45,533)
Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedge derivatives(49,772)— 
Net unrealized gains on AFS debt securities(185,634)(33,480)
Non-marketable and other equity securities(118,712)(54,239)
Premises and equipment and other intangibles(23,721)(16,459)
Right-of-use asset and deferred rent assets(52,057)(50,493)
Other(12,340)(12,087)
Deferred tax liabilities (513,255)(212,291)
Net deferred tax (liabilities) assets $(172,254)$28,433 
Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefit (Including Interest and Penalties)
A summary of changes in our unrecognized tax benefit (including interest and penalties) for December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax BenefitInterest and PenaltiesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2017$11,505 $1,178 $12,683 
Additions for tax positions for current year
4,171 — 4,171 
Additions for tax positions for prior years
631 823 1,454 
Reduction for tax positions for prior years
(1,865)(243)(2,108)
Lapse of the applicable statute of limitations
(435)(86)(521)
Reduction as a result of settlement
(1,318)(222)(1,540)
Balance at December 31, 2018$12,689 $1,450 $14,139 
Additions for tax positions for current year
3,712 — 3,712 
Additions for tax positions for prior years
63 826 889 
Reduction for tax positions for prior years
(884)(524)(1,408)
Lapse of the applicable statute of limitations
(1,826)(569)(2,395)
Reduction as a result of settlement
(1,142)(17)(1,159)
Balance at December 31, 2019$12,612 $1,166 $13,778 
Additions for tax positions for current year5,051 — 5,051 
Additions for tax positions for prior years1,765 1,224 2,989 
Reduction for tax positions for prior years(730)(69)(799)
Lapse of the applicable statute of limitations(1,100)(323)(1,423)
Reduction as a result of settlement(1,108)(219)(1,327)
Balance at December 31, 2020$16,490 $1,779 $18,269 
v3.20.4
Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Summary of Expenses Incurred Under Certain Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans
A summary of expenses incurred under certain employee compensation and benefit plans for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Incentive Compensation Plan$193,004 $143,888 $160,293 
Direct Drive Incentive Compensation Plan37,681 37,315 40,578 
Retention Program— 2,438 1,438 
Warrant Incentive Plan33,921 14,881 9,112 
SVBFG 401(k) Plan29,939 25,687 21,323 
SVBFG ESOP5,807 4,197 6,435 
SVB Leerink Incentive Compensation Plan233,145 106,871 — 
SVB Leerink Retention Award12,991 12,015 — 
v3.20.4
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Summary of Commercial and Standby Letters of Credit
The table below summarizes our commercial and standby letters of credit at December 31, 2020. The maximum potential amount of future payments represents the amount that could be remitted under letters of credit if there were a total default by the guaranteed parties, without consideration of possible recoveries under recourse provisions or from the collateral held or pledged.
(Dollars in thousands)Expires In One Year or LessExpires After One YearTotal Amount OutstandingMaximum Amount of Future Payments
Financial standby letters of credit$2,807,942 $66,641 $2,874,583 $2,874,583 
Performance standby letters of credit108,681 19,488 128,169 128,169 
Commercial letters of credit4,366 — 4,366 4,366 
Total$2,920,989 $86,129 $3,007,118 $3,007,118 
Commitments to extend credit  
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Summary Information Related to Commitments The following table summarizes information related to our commitments to extend credit at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively:
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Loan commitments (1)$28,975,133 $21,743,359 
Commercial and standby letters of credit (2)3,007,118 2,778,561 
Total unfunded credit commitments$31,982,251 $24,521,920 
Allowance for unfunded credit commitments (3)120,796 67,656 
(1)Represents commitments which are available for funding, due to clients meeting all collateral, compliance and financial covenants required under loan commitment agreements.
(2)See below for additional information on our commercial and standby letters of credit.
(3)Our allowance for credit losses for unfunded credit commitments includes an allowance for both our unfunded loan commitments and our letters of credit.
Commitments to invest in venture capital and equity funds  
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Summary Information Related to Commitments The following table details our total capital commitments, unfunded capital commitments, and our ownership percentage in each fund at December 31, 2020:

(Dollars in thousands)		SVBFG Capital Commitments    SVBFG Unfunded 
Commitments		SVBFG Ownership 
of each Fund
CP II, LP (1)$1,200 $162 5.1 %
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP12,688 — 20.0 
Growth Partners, LP24,670 1,340 33.0 
Strategic Investors Fund, LP15,300 688 12.6 
Strategic Investors Fund II, LP15,000 1,050 8.6 
Strategic Investors Fund III, LP15,000 1,275 5.9 
Strategic Investors Fund IV, LP12,239 2,325 5.0 
Strategic Investors Fund V funds515 131 Various
Other venture capital and private equity fund investments (equity method accounting)
25,232 5,566 Various
Debt funds (equity method accounting) 58,733 211 Various
Other fund investments (2)277,301 9,335 Various
Total$457,878 $22,083 
(1)Our ownership includes direct ownership of 1.3 percent and indirect ownership of 3.8 percent through our investment in Strategic Investors Fund II, LP.
(2)Represents commitments to 168 funds (primarily venture capital funds) where our ownership interest is generally less than five of the voting interests of each such fund.
The following table details the amounts of remaining unfunded commitments to venture capital and private equity funds by our consolidated managed funds of funds (including our interest and the noncontrolling interests) at December 31, 2020:

(Dollars in thousands)		Unfunded Commitments    
Strategic Investors Fund, LP$196 
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP1,516 
Growth Partners, LP2,549 
Total$4,261 
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Fair Value Hierarchy Tables Present Information about Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following fair value hierarchy table presents information about our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2020:
(Dollars in thousands)
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3		Balance at December 31, 2020
Assets
Available-for-sale securities:
U.S. Treasury securities$4,469,728 $— $— $4,469,728 
U.S. agency debentures— 237,307 — 237,307 
Foreign government debt securities24,492 — — 24,492 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities
— 13,503,681 — 13,503,681 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate
— 8,106,564 — 8,106,564 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities— 4,570,666 — 4,570,666 
Total available-for-sale securities4,494,220 26,418,218 — 30,912,438 
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Non-marketable securities:
Venture capital and private equity fund investments measured at net asset value
— — — 273,823 
Other equity securities in public companies43,344 237,460 — 280,804 
Total non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value
accounting)		43,344 237,460 — 554,627 
Other assets:
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts— 216,977 — 216,977 
Equity warrant assets— 11,221 192,217 203,438 
Client interest rate derivatives— 67,854 — 67,854 
Total assets$4,537,564 $26,951,730 $192,217 $31,955,334 
Liabilities
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts$— $210,833 $— $210,833 
Client interest rate derivatives— 26,646 — 26,646 
Total liabilities$— $237,479 $— $237,479 
The following fair value hierarchy table presents information about our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2019:
(Dollars in thousands)Level 1Level 2Level 3Balance at December 31, 2019
Assets
Available-for-sale securities:
U.S. Treasury securities$6,894,010 $— $— $6,894,010 
U.S. agency debentures— 99,547 — 99,547 
Foreign government debt securities9,038 — — 9,038 
Residential mortgage-backed securities:
Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities— 4,148,791 — 4,148,791 
Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations—fixed rate— 1,538,343 — 1,538,343 
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities— 1,325,190 — 1,325,190 
Total available-for-sale securities6,903,048 7,111,871 — 14,014,919 
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Non-marketable securities:
Venture capital and private equity fund investments measured at net asset value
— — — 265,263 
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
— — 134 134 
Other equity securities in public companies17,290 41,910 — 59,200 
Total non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value
accounting)		17,290 41,910 134 324,597 
Other assets:
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts— 115,854 — 115,854 
Equity warrant assets— 4,435 161,038 165,473 
Interest rate swaps— 22,676 — 22,676 
Client interest rate derivatives— 28,811 — 28,811 
Total assets$6,920,338 $7,325,557 $161,172 $14,672,330 
Liabilities
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts$— $98,207 $— $98,207 
Interest rate swaps— 25,623 — 25,623 
Client interest rate derivatives— 14,154 — 14,154 
Total liabilities$— $137,984 $— $137,984 
(1)Included in Level 3 assets is $120 thousand attributable to noncontrolling interests calculated based on the ownership percentages of the noncontrolling interests.
Additional Information about Level 3 Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
The following table presents additional information about Level 3 assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis for 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively:
(Dollars in thousands)Beginning
Balance		Total Net Gains (Losses) Included in Net IncomePurchases  Sales/ExitsIssuances  Distributions and Other SettlementsTransfers Out of Level 3Ending
Balance
Year ended December 31, 2020:
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
$134 $(30)$— $(104)$— $— $— $— 
Other assets:
Equity warrant assets (2)161,038 228,944 — (214,933)19,014 — (1,846)192,217 
Total assets$161,172 $228,914 $— $(215,037)$19,014 $— $(1,846)$192,217 
Year ended December 31, 2019:
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
$1,079 $12 $— $(960)$— $3 $— $134 
Other assets:
Equity warrant assets (2)145,199 133,910 575 (130,392)16,453 — (4,707)161,038 
Total assets$146,278 $133,922 $575 $(131,352)$16,453 $3 $(4,707)$161,172 
Year ended December 31, 2018:
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
$919 $457 $— $— $— $(297)$— $1,079 
Other assets:
Equity warrant assets (2)121,331 87,982 — (78,752)17,941 — (3,303)145,199 
Total assets$122,250 $88,439 $— $(78,752)$17,941 $(297)$(3,303)$146,278 
(1)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) are recorded in the line item “Gains on investment securities, net,” a component of noninterest income.
(2)Realized and unrealized gains (losses) are recorded in the line item “Gains on equity warrant assets, net,” a component of noninterest income.
Unrealized Gains Included in Earnings Attributable to Level 3 Assets Held
The following table presents the amount of unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings (which is inclusive of noncontrolling interest) attributable to Level 3 assets still held at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively:
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Non-marketable and other equity securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments not measured at net asset value (1)
$— $(222)
Other assets:
Equity warrant assets (2)54,417 34,691 
Total unrealized gains, net$54,417 $34,469 
Unrealized losses attributable to noncontrolling interests (1)$— $(199)
(1)Unrealized gains are recorded in the line item “Gains on investment securities, net,” a component of noninterest income.
(2)Unrealized gains are recorded in the line item “Gains on equity warrant assets, net,” a component of noninterest income.
Quantitative Information About Significant Unobservable Inputs
The following table presents quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used for certain of our Level 3 fair value measurements at December 31, 2020 and 2019. We have not included in this table our venture capital and private equity fund investments (fair value accounting) as we use net asset value per share (as obtained from the general partners of the investments) as a practical expedient to determine fair value.
(Dollars in thousands)Fair ValueValuation TechniqueSignificant Unobservable InputsInput RageWeighted Average
December 31, 2020:
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio)$1,036 Black-Scholes option pricing modelVolatility
46.0% - 56.8%
49.1 %
Risk-Free interest rate
0.3 - 0.9
0.6 
Sales restrictions discount (2)
10.0- 20.0
10.2 
Equity warrant assets (private portfolio)191,181 Black-Scholes option pricing modelVolatility
24.4 - 56.8
43.2 
Risk-Free interest rate
0.01 - 0.5
0.1 
Marketability discount (3)20.620.6 
Remaining life assumption (4)40.040.0 
December 31, 2019:
Venture capital and private equity fund investments (fair value accounting)
$134 Private company equity pricing(1)(1)(1)
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio)346 Black-Scholes option pricing modelVolatility
39.2% - 54.8%
50.7 %
Risk-Free interest rate1.91.9 
Sales restrictions discount (2)
10.0 - 20.0
13.6 
Equity warrant assets (private portfolio)160,692 Black-Scholes option pricing modelVolatility
23.6- 54.8
38.2 
Risk-Free interest rate
0.5 - 1.9
1.6 
Marketability discount (3)17.517.5 
Remaining life assumption (4)45.045.0 
(1)In determining the fair value of our venture capital and private equity fund investment portfolio (not measured at net asset value), we evaluate a variety of factors related to each underlying private portfolio company including, but not limited to, actual and forecasted results, cash position, recent or planned transactions and market comparable companies. Additionally, we have ongoing communication with the portfolio companies and venture capital fund managers, to determine whether there is a material change in fair value. We use company provided valuation reports, if available, to support our valuation assumptions. These factors are specific to each portfolio company and a weighted average or range of values of the unobservable inputs is not meaningful.
(2)We adjust quoted market prices of public companies, which are subject to certain sales restrictions. Sales restriction discounts generally range from 10 percent to 20 percent depending on the duration of the sales restrictions which typically range from three to six months.
(3)Our marketability discount is applied to all private company warrants to account for a general lack of liquidity due to the private nature of the associated underlying company. The quantitative measure used is based upon various option-pricing models. On a quarterly basis, a sensitivity analysis is performed on our marketability discount.
(4)We adjust the contractual remaining term of private company warrants based on our estimate of the actual remaining life, which we determine by utilizing historical data on terminations and exercises. At December 31, 2020, the weighted average contractual remaining term was 6.0 years, compared to our estimated remaining life of 2.4 years. On a quarterly basis, a sensitivity analysis is performed on our remaining life assumption.
Summary of Estimated Fair Values of Financial Instruments Not Carried at Fair Value The following fair value hierarchy table presents the estimated fair values of our financial instruments that are not carried at fair value at December 31, 2020 and 2019:
  Estimated Fair Value
(Dollars in thousands)Carrying AmountTotal
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
December 31, 2020:
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$17,674,763 $17,674,763 $17,674,763 $— $— 
Held-to-maturity securities16,592,153 17,216,871 — 17,216,871 — 
Non-marketable securities not measured at net asset value240,761 240,761 — — 240,761 
Non-marketable securities measured at net asset value 390,658 390,658 — — — 
Net commercial loans39,886,296 40,412,490 — — 40,412,490 
Net consumer loans4,847,427 4,911,451 — — 4,911,451 
FHLB and Federal Reserve Bank stock61,232 61,232 — — 61,232 
Financial liabilities:
Short-term borrowings20,553 20,553 — 20,553 — 
Non-maturity deposits (1)101,293,346 101,293,346 101,293,346 — — 
Time deposits688,461 501,853 — 501,853 — 
3.50% Senior Notes348,348 382,855 — 382,855 — 
3.125% Senior Notes
495,280 563,840 — 563,840 — 
Off-balance sheet financial assets:
Commitments to extend credit— 36,672 — — 36,672 
December 31, 2019:
Financial assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$6,781,783 $6,781,783 $6,781,783 $— $— 
Held-to-maturity securities13,842,946 14,115,272 — 14,115,272 — 
Non-marketable securities not measured at net asset value195,405 195,405 — — 195,405 
Non-marketable securities measured at net asset value 235,351 235,351 — — — 
Net commercial loans29,104,532 29,615,176 — — 29,615,176 
Net consumer loans3,755,180 3,820,804 — — 3,820,804 
FHLB and Federal Reserve Bank stock60,258 60,258 — — 60,258 
Financial liabilities:
Short-term borrowings17,430 17,430 — 17,430 — 
Non-maturity deposits (1)61,569,714 61,569,714 61,569,714 — — 
Time deposits188,093 187,980 — 187,980 — 
3.50% Senior Notes347,987 366,856 — 366,856 — 
Off-balance sheet financial assets:
Commitments to extend credit— 27,197 — — 27,197 
(1)Includes noninterest-bearing demand deposits, interest-bearing checking accounts, money market accounts and interest-bearing sweep deposits.
Summary of Estimated Fair Values of Investments and Remaining Unfunded Commitments for Each Major Category of Investments
The following table is a summary of the estimated fair values of these investments and remaining unfunded commitments for each major category of these investments as of December 31, 2020:
(Dollars in thousands)Carrying AmountFair ValueUnfunded Commitments
Non-marketable securities (fair value accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments (1)$273,823 $273,823 $12,709 
Non-marketable securities (equity method accounting):
Venture capital and private equity fund investments (2)362,192 362,192 10,509 
Debt funds (2)5,444 5,444 211 
Other investments (2)23,023 23,023 886 
Total$664,482 $664,482 $24,315 
(1)Venture capital and private equity fund investments within non-marketable securities (fair value accounting) include investments made by our managed funds of funds and one of our direct venture funds (consolidated VIEs) and investments in venture capital and private equity fund investments (unconsolidated VIEs). Collectively, these investments in venture capital and private equity funds are primarily in U.S. and global technology and life science/healthcare companies. Included in the fair value and unfunded commitments of fund investments under fair value accounting are $66.2 million and $3.1 million, respectively, attributable to noncontrolling interests. It is estimated that we will receive distributions from the fund investments over the next 10 to 13 years, depending on the age of the funds and any potential extensions of terms of the funds.
(2)Venture capital and private equity fund investments, debt funds and other fund investments within non-marketable securities (equity method accounting) include funds that invest in or lend money to primarily U.S. and global technology and life science/healthcare companies. It is estimated that we will receive distributions from the funds over the next 5 to 8 years, depending on the age of the funds and any potential extensions of the terms of the funds.
v3.20.4
Regulatory Matters (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Banking and Thrift, Other Disclosures [Abstract]  
Capital Ratios for Company and Bank under Federal Regulatory Guidelines, Compared to Minimum Regulatory Capital Requirements for Adequately Capitalized and Well Capitalized Depository Institution The following table presents the capital ratios for the Company and the Bank under federal regulatory guidelines, compared to the minimum regulatory capital requirements, as of December 31, 2020 and 2019:
Capital Ratios Capital Amounts
(Dollars in thousands)ActualRequired Minimum (1)Well Capitalized MinimumActualRequired Minimum (1)Well Capitalized Minimum
December 31, 2020:
CET 1 risk-based capital:
SVB Financial11.04 %7.0 %N/A$7,138,006 $4,527,647 N/A
Bank10.70 7.0 6.5 6,530,167 4,271,642 $3,966,525 
Tier 1 risk-based capital:
SVB Financial11.89 8.5 6.0 7,691,936 5,497,857 3,880,840 
Bank10.70 8.5 8.0 6,530,167 5,186,994 4,881,877 
Total risk-based capital:
SVB Financial12.64 10.5 10.0 8,175,430 6,791,470 6,468,066 
Bank11.49 10.5 10.0 7,013,630 6,407,463 6,102,346 
Tier 1 leverage:
SVB Financial7.45 4.0 N/A7,691,936 4,128,596 N/A
Bank6.43 4.0 5.0 6,530,167 4,060,180 5,075,225 
December 31, 2019:
CET 1 risk-based capital:
SVB Financial12.58 %7.0 %N/A$5,857,744 $3,260,424 N/A
Bank11.12 7.0 6.5 4,949,393 3,115,151 $2,892,640 
Tier 1 risk-based capital:
SVB Financial13.43 8.5 6.0 6,257,442 3,959,086 2,794,649 
Bank11.12 8.5 8.0 4,949,393 3,782,683 3,560,172 
Total risk-based capital:
SVB Financial14.23 10.5 10.0 6,630,022 4,890,636 4,657,748 
Bank11.96 10.5 10.0 5,321,850 4,672,726 4,450,215 
Tier 1 leverage:
SVB Financial9.06 4.0 N/A6,257,442 2,763,146 N/A
Bank7.30 4.0 5.0 4,949,393 2,713,367 3,391,709 
N/A     "Well-Capitalized Minimum" CET 1 risk-based capital and Tier 1 leverage ratios are not formally defined under applicable banking regulations for bank holding companies.
(1)     The percentages represent the minimum capital ratios plus, the fully phased-in 2.5% CET1 capital conservation buffer under the Capital Rules.
v3.20.4
Segment Reporting (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Segment Reporting
Our segment information for 2020, 2019 and 2018 is as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)Global
Commercial
Bank (1)		SVB Private  
Bank		SVB Capital 
(1)  		SVB Leerink (1)Other Items
(2)		Total      
Year ended December 31, 2020
Net interest income$2,025,240 $77,490 $30 $578 $52,946 $2,156,284 
Provision for credit losses(165,987)(21,329)— — (32,194)(219,510)
Noninterest income605,733 3,536 225,954 495,976 508,949 1,840,148 
Noninterest expense (3)(1,019,995)(46,099)(50,589)(378,970)(539,388)(2,035,041)
Income (loss) before income tax expense (4)
$1,444,991 $13,598 $175,395 $117,584 $(9,687)$1,741,881 
Total average loans, amortized cost$31,218,037 $4,195,804 $— $— $1,852,135 $37,265,976 
Total average assets (5) (6)75,034,226 4,229,818 437,132 556,778 5,533,705 85,791,659 
Total average deposits72,127,148 2,171,556 — — 716,726 75,015,430 
Year ended December 31, 2019
Net interest income$1,850,391 $51,022 $38 $1,252 $193,898 $2,096,601 
Provision for credit losses(91,814)(2,369)— — (12,233)(106,416)
Noninterest income637,922 3,366 122,394 264,516 193,281 1,221,479 
Noninterest expense (3)(874,854)(40,151)(30,798)(252,678)(402,781)(1,601,262)
Income (loss) before income tax expense (4)
$1,521,645 $11,868 $91,634 $13,090 $(27,835)$1,610,402 
Total average loans, amortized cost$26,031,284 $3,341,188 $— $— $543,735 $29,916,207 
Total average assets (5) (6)56,043,321 3,371,052 405,152 397,650 2,994,455 63,211,630 
Total average deposits53,053,665 1,524,232 — — 479,053 55,056,950 
Year ended December 31, 2018
Net interest income$1,623,488 $64,902 $23 $— $205,575 $1,893,988 
Provision for credit losses(80,953)(3,339)— — (3,578)(87,870)
Noninterest income (7)520,302 2,281 101,181 — 121,220 744,984 
Noninterest expense (3)(793,159)(25,064)(22,792)— (347,178)(1,188,193)
Income (loss) before income tax expense (4)
$1,269,678 $38,780 $78,412 $— $(23,961)$1,362,909 
Total average loans, amortized cost$22,354,305 $2,850,271 $— $— $425,944 $25,630,520 
Total average assets (5) (8)48,854,416 2,871,743 380,543 — 3,122,358 55,229,060 
Total average deposits46,039,570 1,502,308 — — 533,466 48,075,344 
(1)Global Commercial Bank’s, SVB Capital’s and SVB Leerink's components of net interest income, noninterest income, noninterest expense and total average assets are shown net of noncontrolling interests for all periods presented. Noncontrolling interest is included within "Other Items."
(2)The "Other Items" column reflects the adjustments necessary to reconcile the results of the operating segments to the consolidated financial statements prepared in conformity with GAAP. Net interest income consists primarily of interest earned from our fixed income investment portfolio, net of FTP. Noninterest income consists primarily of gains or losses on equity warrant assets, gains or losses on the sale of AFS securities and gains or losses on equity securities from exercised warrant assets. Noninterest expense consists primarily of expenses associated with corporate support functions such as finance, human resources, marketing, legal and other expenses.
(3)The Global Commercial Bank segment includes direct depreciation and amortization of $25.3 million, $20.4 million and $21.8 million for 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
(4)The internal reporting model used by management to assess segment performance does not calculate income tax expense by segment. Our effective tax rate is a reasonable approximation of the segment rates.
(5)Total average assets equal the greater of total average assets or the sum of total average liabilities and total average stockholders’ equity for each segment to reconcile the results to the consolidated financial statements prepared in conformity with GAAP.
(6)Included in the total average assets for SVB Leerink is goodwill of $137.8 million for both the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
(7)For the year ended December 31, 2018, amounts of client investment fees included in the line item "Noninterest Income" previously reported as "Other Items" have been correctly allocated to our reportable segment "Global Commercial Bank" to properly reflect the source of such revenue. The correction of this immaterial error had no impact on the "Total" amount of noninterest income.
(8)For the year ended December 31, 2018, amounts for average assets previously reported as "Other Items" have been correctly allocated to the reportable segments "Global Commercial Bank" and “SVB Private Bank” to properly reflect the greater of total average assets or the sum of total average liabilities and total average stockholders’ equity for “Global Commercial Bank” and “SVB Private Bank.” The correction of this immaterial error had no impact on the "Total" amount of average assets.
v3.20.4
Parent Company Only Condensed Financial Information (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Condensed Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]  
Condensed Balance Sheets
The condensed balance sheets of SVB Financial at December 31, 2020 and 2019, and the related condensed statements of income, comprehensive income and cash flows for 2020, 2019 and 2018, are presented below:
Condensed Balance Sheets
December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)20202019
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents$670,738 $800,926 
Investment securities666,860 474,842 
Loans, amortized cost682 15,245 
Lease right-of-use assets99,363 71,847 
Other assets260,331 214,167 
Investment in subsidiaries:
Bank subsidiary7,068,964 5,034,095 
Nonbank subsidiaries666,997 432,073 
Total assets$9,433,935 $7,043,195 
Liabilities and SVBFG stockholders’ equity:
3.125% Senior Notes$495,280 $— 
3.50% Senior Notes348,348 347,987 
Lease liabilities134,607 87,999 
Other liabilities236,000 136,903 
Total liabilities$1,214,235 $572,889 
SVBFG stockholders’ equity8,219,700 6,470,306 
Total liabilities and SVBFG stockholders’ equity$9,433,935 $7,043,195 
Condensed Statements of Income
Condensed Statements of Income
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Interest income$2,849 $4,473 $3,307 
Interest expense(21,565)(31,666)(32,037)
Dividend income from bank subsidiary 50,000 733,000 140,000 
Gains on equity warrant assets, net226,942 138,078 89,142 
Gains on investment securities, net157,594 45,345 13,546 
Fund management fees and other noninterest income62,046 21,567 26,388 
General and administrative expenses(120,863)(94,712)(70,976)
Income tax expense(145,790)(40,218)(14,383)
Income before net income of subsidiaries211,213 775,867 154,987 
Equity in undistributed net income of bank subsidiary776,243 303,618 793,641 
Equity in undistributed net income of nonbank subsidiaries220,912 57,371 25,212 
Net income before preferred stock dividend$1,208,368 $1,136,856 $973,840 
Preferred stock dividends(17,151)— — 
Net income available to common stockholders$1,191,217 $1,136,856 $973,840 
Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income
Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income
 Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Net income before preferred stock dividend $1,208,368 $1,136,856 $973,840 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation gains (losses)11,846 2,319 (4,107)
Changes in unrealized holding gains and losses on AFS securities70 2,310 120 
Changes in fair value on bank cash flow hedges, net of reclassification adjustments in bank net income131,403 (2,130)— 
Equity in other comprehensive income (loss) of bank and nonbank subsidiaries 394,753 136,066 (19,171)
Reclassifications to retained earnings for the adoption of new accounting guidance— — (29,490)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax538,072 138,565 (52,648)
Total comprehensive income$1,746,440 $1,275,421 $921,192 
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows ondensed Statements of Cash Flows
Year ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)202020192018
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income before preferred stock dividend$1,208,368 $1,136,856 $973,840 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Gains on equity warrant assets, net(226,942)(138,078)(89,142)
Gains on investment securities, net(157,594)(45,345)(13,546)
Gains on derivatives, net(30,018)— — 
Distributions of earnings from investment securities65,237 49,776 47,596 
Net income of bank subsidiary(826,243)(1,036,618)(933,641)
Net income on nonbank subsidiaries(220,912)(57,371)(25,212)
Cash dividends from bank subsidiary50,000 733,000 140,000 
Amortization of share-based compensation83,986 66,815 45,675 
Decrease in other assets17,189 27,205 51,169 
Increase in other liabilities98,209 21,391 21,619 
Other, net13,206 8,084 (31,024)
Net cash provided by operating activities74,486 765,715 187,334 
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net decrease in investment securities from purchases, sales and maturities122,823 128,635 73,742 
Net decrease (increase) in loans14,563 (15,245)— 
Increase in investment in bank subsidiary(68,630)(42,952)(31,292)
Capital infusion in bank subsidiary(700,000)— — 
Decrease (increase) in investment in nonbank subsidiaries4,271 23,275 (5,323)
Business acquisitions(26,700)(265,601)— 
Net cash (used for) provided by investing activities(653,673)(171,888)37,127 
Cash flows from financing activities:
Principal payments of long-term debt— (358,395)— 
Proceeds from issuance of 3.125% Senior Notes495,024 — — 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, ESPP and ESOP 31,146 24,818 18,387 
Net proceeds from the issuance of preferred stock— 340,138 — 
Payment of preferred stock dividends(17,151)— — 
Common stock repurchase(60,020)(352,511)(147,123)
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities448,999 (345,950)(128,736)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents(130,188)247,877 95,725 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period800,926 553,049 457,324 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$670,738 $800,926 $553,049 
v3.20.4
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]  
Supplemental Consolidated Financial Information
Our supplemental consolidated financial information for each three month period in 2020 and 2019 are as follows:
 Three months ended
(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)March 31,June 30,September 30,December 31,
2020:
Interest income$567,402 $523,523 $543,127 $607,558 
Interest expense43,265 10,596 15,387 16,078 
Net interest income524,137 512,927 527,740 591,480 
Provision for (reduction) credit losses243,480 66,481 (52,018)(38,433)
Noninterest income301,934 368,848 547,583 621,783 
Noninterest expense399,585 479,636 491,021 664,799 
Income before income tax expense183,006 335,658 636,320 586,897 
Income tax expense49,357 87,869 162,265 148,096 
Net income before noncontrolling interests133,649 247,789 474,055 438,801 
Net loss (income) attributable to noncontrolling interests1,973 (14,260)(27,748)(45,891)
Preferred stock dividends(3,369)(4,594)(4,594)(4,594)
Net income available to common stockholders$132,253 $228,935 $441,713 $388,316 
Earnings per common share—basic$2.56 $4.44 $8.53 $7.49 
Earnings per common share—diluted2.55 4.42 8.47 7.40 
2019:
Interest income$551,014 $585,767 $583,892 $588,735 
Interest expense38,128 56,364 63,248 55,067 
Net interest income512,886 529,403 520,644 533,668 
Provision for credit losses28,551 23,946 36,536 17,383 
Noninterest income280,376 333,750 294,009 313,344 
Noninterest expense365,664 383,522 391,324 460,752 
Income before income tax expense399,047 455,685 386,793 368,877 
Income tax expense107,435 119,114 105,075 94,061 
Net income before noncontrolling interests291,612 336,571 281,718 274,816 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(2,880)(18,584)(14,437)(11,960)
Net income available to common stockholders$288,732 $317,987 $267,281 $262,856 
Earnings per common share—basic$5.49 $6.12 $5.19 $5.10 
Earnings per common share—diluted5.44 6.08 5.15 5.06 
v3.20.4
Nature of Business (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Segment
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Number of operating segments 4
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Jan. 01, 2020
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
portfolio_segment
class_financing_receivable
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2018
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2017
USD ($)
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Number of portfolio segments | portfolio_segment   6      
Number of classes of financing receivables | class_financing_receivable   11      
Financing receivable, allowance for credit loss, forecast period   3 years      
Finance lease obligations   $ 0 $ 0    
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   (8,433,491,000) (6,621,080,000) $ (5,264,843,000) $ (4,319,415,000)
Allowance for Loan and Lease Losses, Period Increase (Decrease) $ 48,500,000        
Retained Earnings          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest   (5,671,749,000) (4,575,601,000) $ (3,791,838,000) $ (2,866,837,000)
Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment | ASC 326          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [1]     35,049,000    
Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment | ASC 326 | Retained Earnings          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [1]     35,049,000    
Accrued Interest Receivable And Other Assets | Loans Receivable          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Interest receivable   126,400,000 119,100,000    
Accrued Interest Receivable And Other Assets | Held-to-maturity securities          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Interest receivable   $ 55,000,000.0 $ 45,200,000    
Investor dependent          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Number of loan portfolio segments | portfolio_segment   2      
Investor dependent | Early stage          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Risk-based segments, revenue threshold of subcategories   $ 5,000,000      
Investor dependent | Later stage          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Risk-based segments, revenue threshold of subcategories   $ 15,000,000      
Lower Limit          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Term of contract on forward contracts   1 year      
Sponsor equity contribution, percentage of acquisition price   50.00%      
Lower Limit | Investor dependent | Mid stage          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Risk-based segments, revenue threshold of subcategories   $ 5,000,000      
Upper Limit          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Ownership interest percentage   5.00%      
Term of contract on forward contracts   5 years      
Upper Limit | Mid stage          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Risk-based segments, revenue threshold of subcategories   $ 15,000,000      
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Lower Limit          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Duration of the sale restrictions   3 months      
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Upper Limit          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Duration of the sale restrictions   6 months      
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Sales restrictions discount | Lower Limit          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Sales restriction discounts   0.10      
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Sales restrictions discount | Upper Limit          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Sales restriction discounts   0.20      
Non-marketable securities | Other investments | SPD Silicon Valley Bank Co., Ltd. | Equity method investee          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Ownership interest percentage   50.00%      
Non-marketable securities | Lower Limit | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method investee          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Ownership interest percentage   20.00%      
Non-marketable securities | Lower Limit | Investments in limited partnerships | Equity method investee          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Ownership interest percentage   5.00%      
Non-marketable securities | Fair value accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Growth Partners, LP          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Ownership interest percentage   33.00% 33.00%    
Non-marketable securities | Fair value accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Ownership interest percentage   20.00% 20.00%    
Non-marketable securities | Fair value accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Strategic Investors Fund, LP          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Ownership interest percentage   12.60% 12.60%    
Non-marketable securities | Fair value accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | CP I, LP          
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]          
Ownership interest percentage   0.00% 10.70%    
[1] See Note 2- "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" for additional details.
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Maximum Estimated Useful Lives by Asset Classification (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Leasehold Improvements  
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]  
Premises and equipment, estimated useful life Lesser of lease term or asset life
Furniture and equipment  
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]  
Premises and equipment, estimated useful life 7 years
Software | Lower Limit  
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]  
Premises and equipment, estimated useful life 3 years
Software | Upper Limit  
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]  
Premises and equipment, estimated useful life 7 years
Computer hardware | Lower Limit  
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]  
Premises and equipment, estimated useful life 3 years
Computer hardware | Upper Limit  
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]  
Premises and equipment, estimated useful life 5 years
v3.20.4
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Adoption of New Accounting Standards (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]    
Lease right-of-use assets $ 209,932 $ 197,365
Lease liabilities $ 259,554 $ 218,847
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity and EPS - Reclassification of AOCI (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Jun. 30, 2019
Mar. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]                      
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income                 $ 420,752 $ 134,670 $ 88,094
Related tax expense (benefit) $ (148,096) $ (162,265) $ (87,869) $ (49,357) $ (94,061) $ (105,075) $ (119,114) $ (107,435) (447,587) (425,685) (351,561)
Net interest income 591,480 527,740 512,927 524,137 533,668 520,644 529,403 512,886 2,156,284 2,096,601 1,893,988
Total reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income, net of tax $ 388,316 $ 441,713 $ 228,935 $ 132,253 $ 262,856 $ 267,281 $ 317,987 $ 288,732 1,191,217 1,136,856 973,840
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income                      
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]                      
Total reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income, net of tax                 (80,448) 6,687 535
Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income                      
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]                      
Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income                 (61,165) 3,905 740
Related tax expense (benefit)                 16,953 (1,087) (205)
Accumulated Gain (Loss), Net, Cash Flow Hedge, Parent | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income                      
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income on Derivatives [Line Items]                      
Related tax expense (benefit)                 13,692 (1,489) 0
Net interest income                 $ (49,928) $ 5,358 $ 0
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity and EPS - Activity Related to Net Gains on Cash Flow Hedges in AOCI (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]      
Cash flow hedge gains expected to reclassified out of AOCI over next 12 months $ 63,300    
Balance, beginning of period, net of tax 6,621,080 $ 5,264,843 $ 4,319,415
Balance, end of period, net of tax 8,433,491 6,621,080 5,264,843
Accumulated Gain (Loss), Net, Cash Flow Hedge, Parent      
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]      
Balance, beginning of period, net of tax (2,130) 0 0
Net increase (decrease) in fair value, net of tax 167,639 (5,999) 0
Net realized (gain) loss reclassified to net income, net of tax (36,236) 3,869 0
Balance, end of period, net of tax $ 129,273 $ (2,130) $ 0
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity and EPS - Reconciliation of Basic EPS to Diluted EPS (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Jun. 30, 2019
Mar. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Numerator:                      
Net income available to common stockholders $ 388,316 $ 441,713 $ 228,935 $ 132,253 $ 262,856 $ 267,281 $ 317,987 $ 288,732 $ 1,191,217 $ 1,136,856 $ 973,840
Denominator:                      
Weighted average common shares outstanding-basic (in shares)                 51,685 51,915 53,078
Denominator for diluted calculation (in shares)                 52,084 52,311 53,772
Earnings per common share:                      
Basic (usd per share) $ 7.49 $ 8.53 $ 4.44 $ 2.56 $ 5.10 $ 5.19 $ 6.12 $ 5.49 $ 23.05 $ 21.90 $ 18.35
Diluted (usd per share) $ 7.40 $ 8.47 $ 4.42 $ 2.55 $ 5.06 $ 5.15 $ 6.08 $ 5.44 $ 22.87 $ 21.73 $ 18.11
Stock options and ESPP                      
Denominator:                      
Weighted average effect of dilutive securities (in shares)                 151 227 377
Restricted stock units                      
Denominator:                      
Weighted average effect of dilutive securities (in shares)                 248 169 317
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity and EPS - Common Shares Excluded from Diluted EPS Calculation (Details) - shares
shares in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Shares excluded from diluted earnings per share calculation (in shares) 289 417 144
Stock options      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Shares excluded from diluted earnings per share calculation (in shares) 279 167 59
Restricted stock units      
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]      
Shares excluded from diluted earnings per share calculation (in shares) 10 250 85
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity and EPS - Stock Repurchase Programs (Details) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Oct. 24, 2019
Equity and Earnings Per Share [Abstract]        
Amount of outstanding common stock authorized to be repurchased       $ 350,000,000
Common stock repurchased (in shares) 244,223      
Common stock repurchased $ 60,020,000 $ 352,511,000 $ 147,123,000  
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity and EPS - Preferred Stock (Details) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 09, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Preferred stock, shares issued   350,000 350,000
Preferred stock, par value   $ 0.001 $ 0.001
Preferred stock, shares issued, value   $ 340,138,000 $ 340,138,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding   350,000 350,000
Preferred Stock, Series A      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Preferred stock, shares issued 350,000 350,000  
Preferred stock, par value $ 0.001 $ 0.001  
Preferred stock, liquidation preference (usd per share) $ 1,000    
Preferred stock, depositary share ownership interest   2.50%  
Preferred stock, dividend rate (percent) 5.25%    
Preferred stock, shares issued, value   $ 340,100,000  
Preferred stock, shares outstanding   350,000  
Preferred stock, liquidation preference, value   $ 350,000,000.0  
Preferred stock, dividends paid per depositary share (usd per share)   $ 1.23  
Preferred stock, liquidation preference per depositary share (usd per share) $ 25    
v3.20.4
Stockholders' Equity and EPS - Preferred Stock Summary Schedule (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 09, 2019
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Preferred stock, shares issued, value $ 340,138 $ 340,138  
Preferred stock, shares issued 350,000 350,000  
Par Value $ 0.001 $ 0.001  
Preferred Stock, Series A      
Class of Stock [Line Items]      
Amount outstanding $ 350,000    
Preferred stock, shares issued, value $ 340,100    
Preferred stock, shares issued 350,000   350,000
Par Value $ 0.001   $ 0.001
Ownership interest per depository share (usd per share) 2.50%    
Liquidation preference per depository share (usd per share)     $ 25
2020 dividends paid per depository share (usd per share) $ 1.23    
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation - Share Based Compensation and Related Benefits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]      
Share-based compensation expense $ 83,986 $ 66,815 $ 45,675
Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation expense (20,426) (16,152) (10,997)
Capitalized compensation costs $ 1,383 $ 1,517 $ 1,466
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation - Additional Information (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
shares
Equity Incentive Plan  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Maximum aggregate number of shares that may be awarded and sold 12,028,505
Conversion ratio for awards granted 2
Conversion ratio for awards forfeited 2
Number of common stock shares available for future issuance 2,682,494
Employee Stock Purchase Plan  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Maximum percentage of gross compensation that employees may contribute annually 10.00%
Maximum amount of gross compensation employees may contribute annually | $ $ 25,000
Percentage of fair market value of common stock at which employees may purchase shares 85.00%
Offering period 6 months
Number of hours employed per week to qualify 20 hours
Number of months employed to qualify 5 months
Number of shares issued under ESPP 167,336
Proceeds from issuance of shares under ESPP | $ $ 30,200,000
Number of common stock shares available for future issuance 1,170,472
Expected volatility term 5 years
Restricted stock units | Equity Incentive Plan  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Vesting period of stock award 4 years
Restricted stock units | Equity Incentive Plan | Lower Limit  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Vesting period of stock award 3 years
Performance Based Restricted Stock | Equity Incentive Plan  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Vesting period of stock award 3 years
Performance Based Restricted Stock | Equity Incentive Plan | Lower Limit  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Vesting period of stock award 1 year
Stock options | Equity Incentive Plan  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Vesting period of stock award 4 years
Options granted under the 2006 Incentive Plan, expiration period 7 years
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation - Unrecognized Share-Based Compensation Expense (Details)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Unrecognized Expense $ 133,618
Stock options  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Unrecognized Expense $ 13,854
Weighted Average Expected Recognition Period - in Years   2 years 5 months 1 day
Restricted stock awards/units  
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]  
Unrecognized Expense $ 119,764
Weighted Average Expected Recognition Period - in Years   2 years 7 months 2 days
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation - Weighted Average Assumptions and Fair Values Used for Employee Stock Options and Restricted Stock Units (Details) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]      
Weighted average expected term of options - in years 4 years 7 months 6 days 4 years 7 months 6 days 4 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted average expected volatility of the Company's underlying common stock 41.90% 35.50% 34.70%
Risk-free interest rate 0.37% 2.26% 2.82%
Expected dividend yield $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Weighted average grant date fair value - stock options (usd per share) $ 66.44 $ 83.50 $ 105.81
Weighted average grant date fair value - restricted stock units (usd per share) $ 199.51 $ 243.65 $ 294.50
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation - Weighted Average Assumptions and Fair Values Used for ESPP (Details) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items]      
Expected term in years 4 years 7 months 6 days 4 years 7 months 6 days 4 years 9 months 18 days
Weighted average expected volatility of the Company's underlying common stock 41.90% 35.50% 34.70%
Risk-free interest rate 0.37% 2.26% 2.82%
Expected dividend yield $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Weighted average grant date fair value (usd per share) $ 66.44 $ 83.50 $ 105.81
Employee Stock Purchase Plan      
Share based Compensation Arrangement by Share based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used [Line Items]      
Expected term in years 6 months 6 months 6 months
Weighted average expected volatility of the Company's underlying common stock 51.90% 38.10% 32.20%
Risk-free interest rate 1.12% 2.40% 1.79%
Expected dividend yield $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Weighted average grant date fair value (usd per share) $ 69.54 $ 52.90 $ 62.76
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation - Stock Option Information Related to Equity Incentive Plan (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
$ / shares
shares
Options  
Outstanding, beginning of period (in shares) | shares 625,407
Granted (in shares) | shares 124,091
Exercised (in shares) | shares (173,536)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares (15,931)
Expired (in shares) | shares (1,030)
Outstanding, end of period (in shares) | shares 559,001
Vested and expected to vest (in shares) | shares 538,524
Exercisable (in shares) | shares 276,191
Weighted average exercise price  
Outstanding, beginning of period (usd per share) | $ / shares $ 169.33
Granted (usd per share) | $ / shares 187.59
Exercised (usd per share) | $ / shares 106.42
Forfeited (usd per share) | $ / shares 232.60
Expired (usd per share) | $ / shares 71.11
Outstanding, end of period (usd per share) | $ / shares 191.29
Vested and expected to vest (usd per share) | $ / shares 190.30
Exercisable (usd per share) | $ / shares $ 157.07
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years  
Outstanding (in years) 4 years 3 days
Vested and expected to vest (in years) 3 years 11 months 8 days
Exercisable (in years) 2 years 5 months 19 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value of In-The-Money Options  
Outstanding | $ $ 109,865,324
Vested and expected to vest | $ 106,375,308
Exercisable | $ $ 63,734,604
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation - Stock Options Outstanding (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
$ / shares
shares
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 559,001
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 4 years 3 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 191.29
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 276,191
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 157.07
$101.14 - 105.84  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 101.14
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 105.84
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 87,538
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 2 years 3 months 21 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 105.15
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 87,538
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 105.15
105.85 - 126.18  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 105.85
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 126.18
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 42,249
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 3 months 29 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 108.04
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 42,249
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 108.04
126.19 - 173.94  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 126.19
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 173.94
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 47,407
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 1 year 4 months 9 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 130.42
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 46,673
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 129.81
173.95 - 181.63  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 173.95
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 181.63
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 64,974
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 3 years 3 months 29 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 178.39
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 45,579
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 178.39
181.64 - 195.34  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 181.64
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 195.34
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 116,375
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 6 years 3 months 29 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 184.86
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 0
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 0
195.35 - 247.56  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 195.35
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 247.56
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 15,765
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 5 years 8 months 8 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 230.24
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 3,777
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 227.23
247.57 - 277.95  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 247.57
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 277.95
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 112,934
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 5 years 3 months 29 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 250.43
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 15,367
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 250.43
277.96- 306.22  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 277.96
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 306.22
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 68,705
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 4 years 3 months 29 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 305.46
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 33,875
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 305.46
306.23 - 315.88  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 306.23
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 315.88
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 790
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 6 years 10 months 2 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 306.98
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 0
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 0
315.89 - 324.77  
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]  
Range of Exercise Prices, minimum (usd per share) 315.89
Range of Exercise Prices, maximum (usd per share) $ 324.77
Outstanding Options, Shares | shares 2,264
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years 4 years 7 months 6 days
Outstanding Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 324.77
Exercisable Options, Shares | shares 1,133
Exercisable Options, Weighted Average Exercise Price (usd per share) $ 324.77
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation - Information for Restricted Stock Units under Equity Incentive Plan (Details) - $ / shares
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value      
Granted (usd per share) $ 199.51 $ 243.65 $ 294.50
Closing stock price $ 387.83    
Restricted stock units      
Shares      
Nonvested, beginning of period (in shares) 847,972    
Granted (in shares) 460,671    
Vested (in shares) (261,302)    
Forfeited (in shares) (52,292)    
Nonvested, end of period (in shares) 995,049 847,972  
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value      
Nonvested, beginning of period (usd per share) $ 236.54    
Granted (usd per share) 199.51    
Vested (usd per share) 209.30    
Forfeited (usd per share) 225.66    
Nonvested, end of period (usd per share) $ 227.12 $ 236.54  
v3.20.4
Share-Based Compensation - Summary of Information Regarding Stock Option and Restricted Stock Activity (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Stock options      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised $ 25,380 $ 23,088 $ 40,681
Total grant date fair value of stock options vested 5,868 5,735 5,823
Restricted stock units      
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]      
Total intrinsic value of restricted stock vested 55,782 56,101 63,917
Total grant date fair value of restricted stock vested $ 47,237 $ 35,191 $ 28,813
v3.20.4
Variable Interest Entities - Carrying Amounts and Classification of Significant Variable Interests (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 17,674,763 $ 6,781,783
Non-marketable and other equity securities 1,802,235 1,213,829
Accrued interest receivable and other assets 3,205,825 1,745,233
Total assets 115,511,007 71,004,903
Other liabilities 3,971,974 2,041,752
Total liabilities 107,077,516 64,383,823
Investments in Affordable Housing Projects [Abstract]    
Investments in qualified affordable housing projects 616,188 458,476
Related other liabilities of unfunded credit commitments 370,208 302,031
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary    
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]    
Cash and cash equivalents 14,859 7,629
Non-marketable and other equity securities 422,049 270,057
Accrued interest receivable and other assets 937 1,117
Total assets 437,845 278,803
Other liabilities 1,410 2,854
Total liabilities 1,410 2,854
Maximum Exposure to Loss in Unconsolidated VIEs 436,400  
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary    
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]    
Cash and cash equivalents 0 0
Non-marketable and other equity securities 858,617 689,360
Accrued interest receivable and other assets 0 0
Total assets 858,617 689,360
Other liabilities 370,208 302,031
Total liabilities 370,208 302,031
Maximum Exposure to Loss in Unconsolidated VIEs 858,617 689,360
Non-marketable securities | Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary    
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]    
Maximum Exposure to Loss in Unconsolidated VIEs $ 858,617 $ 689,360
v3.20.4
Variable Interest Entities - Additional Information (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
entity
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Investments In Variable Interest Entities [Abstract]    
Number of consolidated entities | entity 3  
Variable Interest Entity, Primary Beneficiary    
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]    
Maximum Exposure to Loss in Unconsolidated VIEs $ 436,400  
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary    
Variable Interest Entity [Line Items]    
Maximum Exposure to Loss in Unconsolidated VIEs $ 858,617 $ 689,360
v3.20.4
Reserves on Deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Bank Stock - Average Required Reserve Balances (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock and Federal Reserve Bank Stock [Abstract]    
Average required reserve balances at FRB San Francisco $ 82,461 $ 315,784
v3.20.4
Reserves on Deposit with the Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Bank Stock - Shares Held at Federal Reserve Bank and Federal Home Loan Bank (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Federal Home Loan Bank Stock and Federal Reserve Bank Stock [Abstract]    
FHLB stock holdings $ 17,250 $ 17,250
FRB stock holdings $ 43,982 $ 43,008
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents - Summary of Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]    
Cash and due from banks $ 17,447,916 $ 6,492,443
Securities purchased under agreements to resell 226,847 289,340
Total cash and cash equivalents $ 17,674,763 $ 6,781,783
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents - Summary of Cash and Cash Equivalents (Footnote Information) (Details) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]    
Deposits at the Federal Reserve Bank earning interest at the Federal Funds target rate $ 13,700,000,000 $ 3,700,000,000
Interest-earning deposits in other financial institutions 3,000,000,000.0 2,100,000,000
Fair value of securities purchased under agreements to resell 232,000,000 295,000,000
Securities received as collateral, amount repledged and sold $ 0 $ 0
v3.20.4
Cash and Cash Equivalents - Securities Purchased Under Agreements (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]    
Average securities purchased under agreements to resell $ 149,385 $ 166,205
Maximum amount outstanding at any month-end during the year $ 450,164 $ 613,247
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Major Components of Investment Securities Portfolio (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Amortized cost $ 30,244,896 $ 13,894,348
Unrealized Gains 682,530 140,713
Unrealized Losses (14,988) (20,142)
Available-for-sale securities 30,912,438 14,014,919
U.S. treasury securities    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 4,197,858 6,815,874
Unrealized Gains 271,977 82,267
Unrealized Losses (107) (4,131)
Available-for-sale securities 4,469,728 6,894,010
U.S. agency debentures    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 233,727 100,000
Unrealized Gains 4,165 0
Unrealized Losses (585) (453)
Available-for-sale securities 237,307 99,547
Foreign government debt securities    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 24,491 9,037
Unrealized Gains 1 1
Unrealized Losses 0 0
Available-for-sale securities 24,492 9,038
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 13,271,482 4,109,372
Unrealized Gains 232,850 39,438
Unrealized Losses (651) (19)
Available-for-sale securities 13,503,681 4,148,791
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - fixed rate    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 8,076,832 1,520,414
Unrealized Gains 40,010 17,929
Unrealized Losses (10,278) 0
Available-for-sale securities 8,106,564 1,538,343
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 4,440,506 1,339,651
Unrealized Gains 133,527 1,078
Unrealized Losses (3,367) (15,539)
Available-for-sale securities $ 4,570,666 $ 1,325,190
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Activity of Available-for-Sale Securities (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]      
Sales proceeds $ 2,654,212 $ 2,189,087 $ 474,482
Gross realized gains 61,165 1,250 127
Gross realized losses 0 (5,155) (867)
Net realized losses $ 61,165 $ (3,905) $ (740)
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Summary of Unrealized Losses on Available for Sale Securities (Detail)
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Investment
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Investment
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]    
Less than 12 months - Fair Value of Investments $ 4,285,435,000 $ 2,102,365,000
Less than 12 months - Unrealized Losses (14,988,000) (20,007,000)
12 months or longer - Fair Value of Investments 0 449,850,000
12 months or longer - Unrealized Losses 0 (135,000)
Fair Value of Investments 4,285,435,000 2,552,215,000
Unrealized Losses $ (14,988,000) $ (20,142,000)
Number of investments in unrealized loss position | Investment 93 58
Number of investments with unrealized losses greater than 12 months | Investment 0 12
Investments in our AFS securities portfolio past due $ 0  
U.S. treasury securities    
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]    
Less than 12 months - Fair Value of Investments 59,929,000 $ 971,572,000
Less than 12 months - Unrealized Losses (107,000) (3,996,000)
12 months or longer - Fair Value of Investments 0 449,850,000
12 months or longer - Unrealized Losses 0 (135,000)
Fair Value of Investments 59,929,000 1,421,422,000
Unrealized Losses (107,000) (4,131,000)
U.S. agency debentures    
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]    
Less than 12 months - Fair Value of Investments 133,143,000 99,547,000
Less than 12 months - Unrealized Losses (585,000) (453,000)
12 months or longer - Fair Value of Investments 0 0
12 months or longer - Unrealized Losses 0 0
Fair Value of Investments 133,143,000 99,547,000
Unrealized Losses (585,000) (453,000)
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]    
Less than 12 months - Fair Value of Investments 903,767,000 4,014,000
Less than 12 months - Unrealized Losses (651,000) (19,000)
12 months or longer - Fair Value of Investments 0 0
12 months or longer - Unrealized Losses 0 0
Fair Value of Investments 903,767,000 4,014,000
Unrealized Losses (651,000) (19,000)
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - fixed rate    
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]    
Less than 12 months - Fair Value of Investments 2,199,207,000  
Less than 12 months - Unrealized Losses (10,278,000)  
12 months or longer - Fair Value of Investments 0  
12 months or longer - Unrealized Losses 0  
Fair Value of Investments 2,199,207,000  
Unrealized Losses (10,278,000)  
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Investments, Unrealized Loss Position [Line Items]    
Less than 12 months - Fair Value of Investments 989,389,000 1,027,232,000
Less than 12 months - Unrealized Losses (3,367,000) (15,539,000)
12 months or longer - Fair Value of Investments 0 0
12 months or longer - Unrealized Losses 0 0
Fair Value of Investments 989,389,000 1,027,232,000
Unrealized Losses $ (3,367,000) $ (15,539,000)
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Summary of Remaining Contractual Principal Maturities for Available-for-Sale Securities (Detail) - Available-for-sale Securities
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]  
Total $ 30,912,438
One Year or Less 34,584
After One Year to Five Years 3,532,784
After Five Years to Ten Years 2,666,731
After Ten Years 24,678,339
U.S. treasury securities  
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]  
Total 4,469,728
One Year or Less 10,092
After One Year to Five Years 3,532,784
After Five Years to Ten Years 926,852
After Ten Years 0
U.S. agency debentures  
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]  
Total 237,307
One Year or Less 0
After One Year to Five Years 0
After Five Years to Ten Years 237,307
After Ten Years 0
Foreign government debt securities  
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]  
Total 24,492
One Year or Less 24,492
After One Year to Five Years 0
After Five Years to Ten Years 0
After Ten Years 0
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities  
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]  
Total 13,503,681
One Year or Less 0
After One Year to Five Years 0
After Five Years to Ten Years 0
After Ten Years 13,503,681
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - fixed rate  
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]  
Total 8,106,564
One Year or Less 0
After One Year to Five Years 0
After Five Years to Ten Years 0
After Ten Years 8,106,564
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities  
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]  
Total 4,570,666
One Year or Less 0
After One Year to Five Years 0
After Five Years to Ten Years 1,502,572
After Ten Years $ 3,068,094
Lower Limit  
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]  
Mortgage-backed securities contractual maturities (in years) 10 years
Upper Limit  
Investments Classified By Contractual Maturity Date [Line Items]  
Mortgage-backed securities contractual maturities (in years) 30 years
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Summary of Components and Unrealized Losses on Held-to-Maturity Securities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized cost $ 16,592,545 $ 13,842,946
Unrealized Gains 627,338 289,763
Unrealized Losses (3,012) (17,437)
Fair Value 17,216,871 14,115,272
Allowance for Credit Losses 392 0
U.S. agency debentures    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 402,265 518,728
Unrealized Gains 18,961 6,640
Unrealized Losses 0 (668)
Fair Value 421,226 524,700
Allowance for Credit Losses 0  
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 7,739,763 6,992,009
Unrealized Gains 240,121 142,209
Unrealized Losses (2,211) (2,066)
Fair Value 7,977,673 7,132,152
Allowance for Credit Losses 0  
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - fixed rate    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 1,735,451 1,608,032
Unrealized Gains 23,227 592
Unrealized Losses (296) (8,502)
Fair Value 1,758,382 1,600,122
Allowance for Credit Losses 0  
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Variable rate    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 136,913 178,611
Unrealized Gains 317 94
Unrealized Losses 0 (259)
Fair Value 137,230 178,446
Allowance for Credit Losses 0  
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 2,942,959 2,759,615
Unrealized Gains 123,846 56,914
Unrealized Losses 0 (4,508)
Fair Value 3,066,805 2,812,021
Allowance for Credit Losses 0  
Municipal bonds and notes    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized cost 3,635,194 1,785,951
Unrealized Gains 220,866 83,314
Unrealized Losses (505) (1,434)
Fair Value 3,855,555 1,867,831
Allowance for Credit Losses $ 392 $ 0
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Allowance for Credit Losses for HTM Securities (Details)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Debt Securities, Held-to-maturity, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]  
Beginning Balance $ 0
Provision for HTM Securities 218
Ending Balance 392
Day one impact for adoption of amendment  
Debt Securities, Held-to-maturity, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]  
Beginning Balance 174
Municipal bonds and notes  
Debt Securities, Held-to-maturity, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]  
Beginning Balance 0
Provision for HTM Securities 218
Ending Balance 392
Municipal bonds and notes | Day one impact for adoption of amendment  
Debt Securities, Held-to-maturity, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]  
Beginning Balance $ 174
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Credit Quality Indicators (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Held-to-maturity debt securities, at amortized cost $ 16,592,545 $ 13,842,946
Municipal bonds and notes    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Held-to-maturity debt securities, at amortized cost 3,635,194 $ 1,785,951
Aaa | Municipal bonds and notes    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Held-to-maturity debt securities, at amortized cost 2,070,311  
Aa1 | Municipal bonds and notes    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Held-to-maturity debt securities, at amortized cost 1,144,500  
Aa2 | Municipal bonds and notes    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Held-to-maturity debt securities, at amortized cost $ 420,383  
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Summary of Remaining Contractual Principal Maturities for Held-to-Maturity Securities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Fair Value $ 17,216,871 $ 14,115,272
U.S. agency debentures    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Fair Value 421,226 524,700
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Fair Value 7,977,673 7,132,152
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - fixed rate    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Fair Value 1,758,382 1,600,122
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Variable rate    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Fair Value 137,230 178,446
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Fair Value 3,066,805 2,812,021
Municipal bonds and notes    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Fair Value 3,855,555 $ 1,867,831
Held-to-maturity securities    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 16,592,545  
Fair Value 17,216,871  
One Year or Less - Amortized Cost 55,729  
One Year or Less - Fair Value 56,297  
After One Year to Five Years - Amortized Cost 319,166  
After One Year to Five Years - Fair Value 331,919  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Amortized Cost 2,056,015  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Fair Value 2,169,124  
After Ten Years - Amortized Cost 14,161,635  
After Ten Years - Fair Value 14,659,531  
Held-to-maturity securities | U.S. agency debentures    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 402,265  
Fair Value 421,226  
One Year or Less - Amortized Cost 4,675  
One Year or Less - Fair Value 4,705  
After One Year to Five Years - Amortized Cost 148,478  
After One Year to Five Years - Fair Value 153,756  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Amortized Cost 249,112  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Fair Value 262,765  
After Ten Years - Amortized Cost 0  
After Ten Years - Fair Value 0  
Held-to-maturity securities | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 7,739,763  
Fair Value 7,977,673  
One Year or Less - Amortized Cost 4,762  
One Year or Less - Fair Value 4,951  
After One Year to Five Years - Amortized Cost 20,389  
After One Year to Five Years - Fair Value 21,150  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Amortized Cost 540,731  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Fair Value 559,727  
After Ten Years - Amortized Cost 7,173,881  
After Ten Years - Fair Value 7,391,845  
Held-to-maturity securities | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued collateralized mortgage obligations - fixed rate    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 1,735,451  
Fair Value 1,758,382  
One Year or Less - Amortized Cost 0  
One Year or Less - Fair Value 0  
After One Year to Five Years - Amortized Cost 5,952  
After One Year to Five Years - Fair Value 6,073  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Amortized Cost 494,532  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Fair Value 505,156  
After Ten Years - Amortized Cost 1,234,967  
After Ten Years - Fair Value 1,247,153  
Held-to-maturity securities | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Variable rate    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 136,913  
Fair Value 137,230  
One Year or Less - Amortized Cost 0  
One Year or Less - Fair Value 0  
After One Year to Five Years - Amortized Cost 0  
After One Year to Five Years - Fair Value 0  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Amortized Cost 0  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Fair Value 0  
After Ten Years - Amortized Cost 136,913  
After Ten Years - Fair Value 137,230  
Held-to-maturity securities | Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 2,942,959  
Fair Value 3,066,805  
One Year or Less - Amortized Cost 0  
One Year or Less - Fair Value 0  
After One Year to Five Years - Amortized Cost 0  
After One Year to Five Years - Fair Value 0  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Amortized Cost 102,359  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Fair Value 119,922  
After Ten Years - Amortized Cost 2,840,600  
After Ten Years - Fair Value 2,946,883  
Held-to-maturity securities | Municipal bonds and notes    
Schedule of Held-to-maturity Securities [Line Items]    
Amortized Cost 3,635,194  
Fair Value 3,855,555  
One Year or Less - Amortized Cost 46,292  
One Year or Less - Fair Value 46,641  
After One Year to Five Years - Amortized Cost 144,347  
After One Year to Five Years - Fair Value 150,940  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Amortized Cost 669,281  
After Five Years to Ten Years - Fair Value 721,554  
After Ten Years - Amortized Cost 2,775,274  
After Ten Years - Fair Value $ 2,936,420  
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Major Components of Non-marketable and Other Securities (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Investments in qualified affordable housing projects, net $ 616,188 $ 458,476
Total non-marketable and other securities 1,802,235 1,213,829
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 88,937 87,180
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 362,192 215,367
Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 184,886 178,217
Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 362,192 215,367
Other investments | Fair value accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 60,975 55,255
Other investments | Equity method accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 202,809 152,863
Equity securities | Fair value accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Other equity securities 280,804 59,200
Debt funds | Equity method accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities $ 5,444 $ 7,271
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Consolidated Venture Capital and Private Equity Fund Investments (Details) - Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments - Fair value accounting - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities $ 88,937 $ 87,180
Strategic Investors Fund, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities $ 4,850 $ 5,729
Strategic Investors Fund, LP | Non-marketable securities    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 12.60% 12.60%
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities $ 49,574 $ 45,341
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP | Non-marketable securities    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 20.00% 20.00%
Growth Partners, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities $ 34,513 $ 35,976
Growth Partners, LP | Non-marketable securities    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 33.00% 33.00%
CP I, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities $ 0 $ 134
CP I, LP | Non-marketable securities    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 0.00% 10.70%
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Unconsolidated Venture Capital and Private Equity Fund Investments (Details)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Investment
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Investment
Upper Limit    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 5.00%  
Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities | $ $ 184,886 $ 178,217
Non-marketable securities | Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Number of investments | Investment 162 205
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Other Investments Without a Readily Determinable Fair Value (Details)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]  
Carrying value at December 31, 2020 $ 60,975
Year end Adjustments  
Impairment (487)
Upward changes for observable prices 3,479
Downward changes for observable prices (2,799)
Cumulative Adjustments  
Impairment (947)
Upward changes for observable prices 4,216
Downward changes for observable prices $ 3,898
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Nonmarketable Securities Under Equity Method Accounting (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities $ 362,192 $ 215,367
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | Strategic Investors Fund II, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 3,705 3,612
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | Strategic Investors Fund III, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 16,110 15,668
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | Strategic Investors Fund IV, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 25,169 27,064
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | Strategic Investors Fund V funds    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 67,052 46,830
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | CP II, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 7,887 5,907
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | Other venture capital and private equity fund investments    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 242,269 116,286
Debt funds | Equity method accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 5,444 7,271
Debt funds | Equity method accounting | Gold Hill Capital 2008, LP (ii)    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 3,941 5,525
Debt funds | Equity method accounting | Other debt funds    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 1,503 1,746
Other investments | Equity method accounting    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 202,809 152,863
Other investments | Equity method accounting | SPD Silicon Valley Bank Co., Ltd.    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 115,232 74,190
Other investments | Equity method accounting | Other investments    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities $ 87,577 $ 78,673
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | CP II, LP | Direct ownership interest    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 1.30%  
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | CP II, LP | Indirect ownership interest    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 3.80%  
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | Strategic Investors Fund II, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 8.60% 8.60%
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | Strategic Investors Fund III, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 5.90% 5.90%
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | Strategic Investors Fund IV, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 5.00% 5.00%
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | CP II, LP    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 5.10% 5.10%
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | CP II, LP | Direct ownership interest    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 1.30%  
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting | CP II, LP | Indirect ownership interest    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 3.80%  
Non-marketable securities | Debt funds | Equity method accounting | Direct ownership interest    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 11.50%  
Non-marketable securities | Debt funds | Equity method accounting | Indirect ownership interest    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 4.00%  
Non-marketable securities | Debt funds | Equity method accounting | Gold Hill Capital 2008, LP (ii)    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 15.50% 15.50%
Non-marketable securities | Other investments | Equity method accounting | SPD Silicon Valley Bank Co., Ltd.    
Investment Holdings [Line Items]    
Ownership interest percentage 50.00% 50.00%
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Qualified Affordable Housing Projects (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Investments in Affordable Housing Projects [Abstract]      
Investments in qualified affordable housing projects, net $ 616,188 $ 458,476  
Other liabilities 370,208 302,031  
Tax credits and other tax benefits recognized 56,969 35,037 $ 24,047
Amortization expense included in provision for income taxes $ 43,875 $ 28,267 $ 18,876
v3.20.4
Investment Securities - Components of Gains and Losses (Realized and Unrealized) on Investment Securities (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]      
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net $ 359,587 $ 138,575 $ 88,834
Non-marketable securities      
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]      
Less: Realized net losses on the sales and OTTI of non-marketable and other equity securities (23,344) (4,744) 26,097
Net gains on non-marketable and other equity securities still held 336,243 133,831 114,931
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting      
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]      
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net 32,439 22,507 20,999
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting      
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]      
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net 161,828 73,813 49,341
Non-marketable securities | Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting      
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]      
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net 59,909 31,482 39,075
Non-marketable securities | Other investments | Fair value accounting      
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]      
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net 253 2,742 3,206
Non-marketable securities | Other investments | Equity method accounting      
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]      
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net 696 (1,388) 1,155
Non-marketable securities | Debt funds | Equity method accounting      
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]      
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net (403) 1,647 541
Other equity securities | Fair value accounting      
Gain (Loss) on Securities [Line Items]      
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net $ 104,865 $ 7,772 $ (25,483)
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Composition of Loans, Net of Unearned Income (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost $ 45,181,488 $ 33,164,636    
Allowance for credit loss (447,765) (304,924) $ (280,903) $ (255,024)
Net loans 44,733,723 32,859,712    
Global fund banking        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 25,543,198 17,696,794    
Allowance for credit loss (45,584) (107,285) (93,781) (82,468)
Investor dependent        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 4,971,818 4,335,195    
Allowance for credit loss (213,357) (82,370) (72,101) (61,022)
Investor dependent | Early stage        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 1,485,866 1,624,221    
Allowance for credit loss (86,674) (26,245) (25,885) (22,742)
Investor dependent | Mid stage        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 1,564,870 1,047,398    
Investor dependent | Later stage        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 1,921,082 1,663,576    
Cash flow dependent        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 4,934,533 4,424,238    
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 1,989,173 2,185,497    
Cash flow dependent | Other        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 2,945,360 2,238,741    
Private Bank        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 4,901,056 3,492,269    
Allowance for credit loss (53,629) (21,551) $ (20,583) $ (16,441)
Balance sheet dependent        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 2,191,023 1,286,153    
Premium wine        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 1,052,643 1,062,264    
Other        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 27,687 867,723    
SBA loans        
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]        
Loans, amortized cost 1,559,530 0    
Allowance for credit loss $ (1,910) $ 0    
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Additional Information (Details)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
class_financing_receivable
portfolio_segment
risk_based_segment
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Receivables [Abstract]    
Number of portfolio segments | portfolio_segment 6  
Number of financing receivable classes | class_financing_receivable 10  
Number of risk-based segments | risk_based_segment 11  
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Unearned income on loans $ 226,000 $ 163,000
Loans, amortized cost 45,181,488 33,164,636
Real estate secured loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,939,569 4,146,347
Credit card receivable    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 400,000 395,000
Construction loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 118,000 183,000
Private Bank    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans reported in Other under historical definitions 427,000  
Loans, amortized cost 4,901,056 3,492,269
Private Bank | Real estate secured loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,058,679 3,325,617
Private Bank | Loans for personal residence | Real estate secured loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 3,392,237 2,829,880
Private Bank | Loans to eligible employees | Real estate secured loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 481,098 401,396
Private Bank | Home equity lines of credit | Real estate secured loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 42,449 55,461
Private Bank | Other | Real estate secured loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 142,895 38,880
Premium wine    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans reported in Other under historical definitions 53,000  
Loans, amortized cost 1,052,643 1,062,264
Premium wine | Real estate secured loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 824,008 820,730
Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 27,687 867,723
Other | Real estate secured loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost $ 56,882 $ 0
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Credit Quality Indicators, Broken out by Risk-Based Segments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost $ 45,181,488 $ 33,164,636
Loans, at gross basis   33,327,704
Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 104,244  
Loans, at gross basis   102,669
Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 43,825,846  
Loans, at gross basis   32,361,879
Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,251,398  
Loans, at gross basis   863,156
Global fund banking    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 25,543,198 17,696,794
Loans, at gross basis   17,712,797
Global fund banking | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 11  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Global fund banking | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 25,537,354  
Loans, at gross basis   17,708,550
Global fund banking | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 5,833  
Loans, at gross basis   4,247
Investor dependent    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,971,818 4,335,195
Loans, at gross basis   4,418,884
Investor dependent | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 51,053  
Loans, at gross basis   34,719
Investor dependent | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,454,347  
Loans, at gross basis   3,850,585
Investor dependent | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 466,418  
Loans, at gross basis   533,580
Investor dependent | Early stage    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,485,866 1,624,221
Loans, at gross basis   1,653,425
Investor dependent | Early stage | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 18,340  
Loans, at gross basis   11,093
Investor dependent | Early stage | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,288,897  
Loans, at gross basis   1,436,022
Investor dependent | Early stage | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 178,629  
Loans, at gross basis   206,310
Investor dependent | Mid stage    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,564,870 1,047,398
Loans, at gross basis   1,066,783
Investor dependent | Mid stage | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,056  
Loans, at gross basis   17,330
Investor dependent | Mid stage | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,420,788  
Loans, at gross basis   924,002
Investor dependent | Mid stage | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 140,026  
Loans, at gross basis   125,451
Investor dependent | Later stage    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,921,082 1,663,576
Loans, at gross basis   1,698,676
Investor dependent | Later stage | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 28,657  
Loans, at gross basis   6,296
Investor dependent | Later stage | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,744,662  
Loans, at gross basis   1,490,561
Investor dependent | Later stage | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 147,763  
Loans, at gross basis   201,819
Cash flow dependent    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,934,533 4,424,238
Loans, at gross basis   4,455,867
Cash flow dependent | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 46,000  
Loans, at gross basis   62,266
Cash flow dependent | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,473,343  
Loans, at gross basis   4,181,613
Cash flow dependent | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 415,190  
Loans, at gross basis   211,988
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,989,173 2,185,497
Loans, at gross basis   2,203,020
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 39,996  
Loans, at gross basis   44,585
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,795,972  
Loans, at gross basis   2,039,847
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 153,205  
Loans, at gross basis   118,588
Cash flow dependent | Other    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,945,360 2,238,741
Loans, at gross basis   2,252,847
Cash flow dependent | Other | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 6,004  
Loans, at gross basis   17,681
Cash flow dependent | Other | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,677,371  
Loans, at gross basis   2,141,766
Cash flow dependent | Other | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 261,985  
Loans, at gross basis   93,400
Private Bank    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,901,056 3,492,269
Loans, at gross basis   3,489,219
Private Bank | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 6,152  
Loans, at gross basis   5,480
Private Bank | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,862,176  
Loans, at gross basis   3,472,138
Private Bank | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 32,728  
Loans, at gross basis   11,601
Balance sheet dependent    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,191,023 1,286,153
Loans, at gross basis   1,297,304
Balance sheet dependent | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Balance sheet dependent | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,104,645  
Loans, at gross basis   1,231,961
Balance sheet dependent | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 86,378  
Loans, at gross basis   65,343
Premium wine    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,052,643 1,062,264
Loans, at gross basis   1,063,512
Premium wine | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 998  
Loans, at gross basis   204
Premium wine | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 910,397  
Loans, at gross basis   1,026,973
Premium wine | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 141,248  
Loans, at gross basis   36,335
Other    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 27,687 867,723
Loans, at gross basis   890,121
Other | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 30  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Other | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 27,594  
Loans, at gross basis   890,059
Other | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 63  
Loans, at gross basis   62
SBA loans    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,559,530 $ 0
SBA loans | Nonperforming (Nonaccrual)    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
SBA loans | Pass    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,455,990  
SBA loans | Criticized    
Financing Receivable, Credit Quality Indicator [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost $ 103,540  
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Credit Quality Indicators, Broken out by Risk-Based Segments and Vintage Year (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 $ 9,153,860  
2019 4,008,276  
2018 1,861,154  
2017 934,386  
2016 530,328  
Prior 598,525  
Revolving Loans 28,040,704  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 54,255  
Loans, amortized cost 45,181,488 $ 33,164,636
Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 104,244  
Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 43,825,846  
Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,251,398  
Global fund banking    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 439,497  
2019 48,305  
2018 68,491  
2017 22,878  
2016 2,389  
Prior 5,999  
Revolving Loans 24,947,838  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 7,801  
Loans, amortized cost 25,543,198 17,696,794
Global fund banking | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 3  
2019 8  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 11  
Global fund banking | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 439,494  
2019 48,297  
2018 68,491  
2017 22,878  
2016 2,389  
Prior 5,999  
Revolving Loans 24,947,428  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 2,378  
Loans, amortized cost 25,537,354  
Global fund banking | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 0  
2019 0  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 410  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 5,423  
Loans, amortized cost 5,833  
Investor dependent    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 2,544,507  
2019 1,253,486  
2018 528,189  
2017 115,532  
2016 9,888  
Prior 17,072  
Revolving Loans 495,047  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 8,097  
Loans, amortized cost 4,971,818 4,335,195
Investor dependent | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 51,053  
Investor dependent | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,454,347  
Investor dependent | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 466,418  
Investor dependent | Early stage    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 716,333  
2019 452,038  
2018 152,458  
2017 42,808  
2016 4,791  
Prior 739  
Revolving Loans 116,082  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 617  
Loans, amortized cost 1,485,866 1,624,221
Investor dependent | Early stage | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 2,438  
2019 9,354  
2018 5,368  
2017 441  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 739  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 18,340  
Investor dependent | Early stage | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 667,006  
2019 370,189  
2018 120,920  
2017 32,163  
2016 1,234  
Prior 405  
Revolving Loans 96,363  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 617  
Loans, amortized cost 1,288,897  
Investor dependent | Early stage | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 46,889  
2019 72,495  
2018 26,170  
2017 10,204  
2016 3,557  
Prior 334  
Revolving Loans 18,980  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 178,629  
Investor dependent | Mid stage    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 883,729  
2019 350,813  
2018 171,829  
2017 33,615  
2016 5,086  
Prior 6,699  
Revolving Loans 110,604  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 2,495  
Loans, amortized cost 1,564,870 1,047,398
Investor dependent | Mid stage | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 10  
2019 614  
2018 218  
2017 2,539  
2016 0  
Prior 675  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 4,056  
Investor dependent | Mid stage | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 840,431  
2019 301,905  
2018 145,588  
2017 22,834  
2016 5,086  
Prior 1,026  
Revolving Loans 101,423  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 2,495  
Loans, amortized cost 1,420,788  
Investor dependent | Mid stage | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 43,288  
2019 48,294  
2018 26,023  
2017 8,242  
2016 0  
Prior 4,998  
Revolving Loans 9,181  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 140,026  
Investor dependent | Later stage    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 944,445  
2019 450,635  
2018 203,902  
2017 39,109  
2016 11  
Prior 9,634  
Revolving Loans 268,361  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 4,985  
Loans, amortized cost 1,921,082 1,663,576
Investor dependent | Later stage | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 16,691  
2019 1,797  
2018 3,522  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 6,647  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 28,657  
Investor dependent | Later stage | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 905,468  
2019 393,584  
2018 170,128  
2017 37,967  
2016 11  
Prior 8,087  
Revolving Loans 224,432  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 4,985  
Loans, amortized cost 1,744,662  
Investor dependent | Later stage | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 22,286  
2019 55,254  
2018 30,252  
2017 1,142  
2016 0  
Prior 1,547  
Revolving Loans 37,282  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 147,763  
Cash flow dependent    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 1,690,801  
2019 1,114,850  
2018 546,307  
2017 333,316  
2016 88,711  
Prior 101  
Revolving Loans 1,160,447  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 4,934,533 4,424,238
Cash flow dependent | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 46,000  
Cash flow dependent | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,473,343  
Cash flow dependent | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 415,190  
Cash flow dependent | Other    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 898,788  
2019 581,096  
2018 217,500  
2017 137,712  
2016 38,808  
Prior 101  
Revolving Loans 1,071,355  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 2,945,360 2,238,741
Cash flow dependent | Other | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 0  
2019 0  
2018 4,552  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 1,452  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 6,004  
Cash flow dependent | Other | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 879,542  
2019 513,242  
2018 179,169  
2017 133,235  
2016 38,808  
Prior 101  
Revolving Loans 933,274  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 2,677,371  
Cash flow dependent | Other | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 19,246  
2019 67,854  
2018 33,779  
2017 4,477  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 136,629  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 261,985  
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 792,013  
2019 533,754  
2018 328,807  
2017 195,604  
2016 49,903  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 89,092  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 1,989,173 2,185,497
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 33  
2019 11,869  
2018 16,068  
2017 7,177  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 4,849  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 39,996  
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 791,480  
2019 451,561  
2018 273,719  
2017 166,820  
2016 36,900  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 75,492  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 1,795,972  
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 500  
2019 70,324  
2018 39,020  
2017 21,607  
2016 13,003  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 8,751  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 153,205  
Private Bank    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 1,881,664  
2019 1,163,451  
2018 402,034  
2017 354,059  
2016 299,971  
Prior 415,313  
Revolving Loans 383,904  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 660  
Loans, amortized cost 4,901,056 3,492,269
Private Bank | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 0  
2019 563  
2018 3,197  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 1,679  
Revolving Loans 713  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 6,152  
Private Bank | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 1,878,184  
2019 1,152,903  
2018 394,351  
2017 352,857  
2016 294,870  
Prior 405,909  
Revolving Loans 382,442  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 660  
Loans, amortized cost 4,862,176  
Private Bank | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 3,480  
2019 9,985  
2018 4,486  
2017 1,202  
2016 5,101  
Prior 7,725  
Revolving Loans 749  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 32,728  
Balance sheet dependent    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 893,500  
2019 193,873  
2018 198,703  
2017 19,213  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 884,229  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 1,505  
Loans, amortized cost 2,191,023 1,286,153
Balance sheet dependent | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 0  
2019 0  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Balance sheet dependent | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 837,613  
2019 190,140  
2018 198,532  
2017 19,213  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 857,642  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 1,505  
Loans, amortized cost 2,104,645  
Balance sheet dependent | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 55,887  
2019 3,733  
2018 171  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 26,587  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 86,378  
Premium wine    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 144,358  
2019 218,030  
2018 106,520  
2017 89,388  
2016 129,369  
Prior 159,607  
Revolving Loans 169,179  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 36,192  
Loans, amortized cost 1,052,643 1,062,264
Premium wine | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 0  
2019 0  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 998  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 998  
Premium wine | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 126,476  
2019 193,744  
2018 70,783  
2017 79,088  
2016 114,812  
Prior 153,841  
Revolving Loans 135,461  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 36,192  
Loans, amortized cost 910,397  
Premium wine | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 17,882  
2019 24,286  
2018 35,737  
2017 10,300  
2016 13,559  
Prior 5,766  
Revolving Loans 33,718  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 141,248  
Other    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 3  
2019 16,281  
2018 10,910  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 433  
Revolving Loans 60  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 27,687 867,723
Other | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 0  
2019 30  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 30  
Other | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 0  
2019 16,251  
2018 10,910  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 433  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 27,594  
Other | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 3  
2019 0  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 60  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 63  
SBA loans    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 1,559,530  
2019 0  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 1,559,530 $ 0
SBA loans | Nonperforming    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 0  
2019 0  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 0  
SBA loans | Pass    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 1,455,990  
2019 0  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost 1,455,990  
SBA loans | Criticized    
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]    
2020 103,540  
2019 0  
2018 0  
2017 0  
2016 0  
Prior 0  
Revolving Loans 0  
Revolving Loans Converted to Term Loans 0  
Loans, amortized cost $ 103,540  
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Activity Relating to our Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance $ 304,924 $ 280,903 $ 255,024
Charge-offs (102,904) (92,603) (67,917)
Recoveries 29,018 21,038 11,636
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 189,226 94,183 84,292
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments 2,037 1,403 (2,132)
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 447,765 304,924 280,903
Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 25,464    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   25,464  
Global fund banking      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 107,285 93,781 82,468
Charge-offs 0 (2,047) (112)
Recoveries 0 2,047 0
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 8,367 13,534 11,698
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments (180) (30) (273)
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 45,584 107,285 93,781
Global fund banking | Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance (69,888)    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   (69,888)  
Investor dependent      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 82,370 72,101 61,022
Charge-offs (88,643) (84,823) (49,222)
Recoveries 24,863 14,033 9,027
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 124,970 80,799 52,120
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments (1,827) 260 (846)
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 213,357 82,370 72,101
Investor dependent | Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 71,624    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   71,624  
Investor dependent | Early stage      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 26,245 25,885 22,742
Charge-offs (35,305) (31,568) (32,495)
Recoveries 10,821 9,088 6,154
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 45,825 22,462 29,788
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments (823) 378 (304)
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 86,674 26,245 25,885
Investor dependent | Early stage | Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 39,911    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   39,911  
Investor dependent | Growth Stage      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 56,125 46,216 38,280
Charge-offs (53,338) (53,255) (16,727)
Recoveries 14,042 4,945 2,873
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 79,145 58,337 22,332
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments (1,004) (118) (542)
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 126,683 56,125 46,216
Investor dependent | Growth Stage | Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 31,713    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   31,713  
Cash flow and balance sheet dependent      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 80,820 87,735 87,620
Charge-offs (11,187) (3,118) (16,223)
Recoveries 2,846 4,683 2,064
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 53,369 (9,093) 15,304
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments (330) 613 (1,030)
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 124,249 80,820 87,735
Cash flow and balance sheet dependent | Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance (1,269)    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   (1,269)  
Private Bank      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 21,551 20,583 16,441
Charge-offs (1,616) (1,031) (289)
Recoveries 30 255 486
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 21,329 1,865 3,986
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments (280) (121) (41)
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 53,629 21,551 20,583
Private Bank | Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 12,615    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   12,615  
Premium wine and other      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 12,898 6,703 7,473
Charge-offs (1,458) (1,584) (2,071)
Recoveries 1,279 20 59
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans (20,719) 7,078 1,184
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments 4,654 681 58
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 9,036 12,898 $ 6,703
Premium wine and other | Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 12,382    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   12,382  
SBA loans      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 0    
Charge-offs 0    
Recoveries 0    
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 1,910    
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments 0    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 1,910 0  
SBA loans | Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance $ 0    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   $ 0  
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Summary of the Aging of Loans Broken out by Risk-based Segments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost $ 45,181,488 $ 33,164,636
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   33,327,704
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   3,515
30 - 59   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 60,267  
Loans, at gross basis   137,375
60 - 89   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 7,251  
Loans, at gross basis   38,224
Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,200  
Loans, at gross basis   15,988
  Total Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 69,718  
Loans, at gross basis   191,587
Current      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 45,111,770  
Loans, at gross basis   33,136,117
Global fund banking    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 25,543,198 17,696,794
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   17,712,797
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   3,150
Global fund banking | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 27,606  
Loans, at gross basis   97,739
Global fund banking | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 8  
Loans, at gross basis   383
Global fund banking | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 11  
Loans, at gross basis   3,150
Global fund banking |   Total Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 27,625  
Loans, at gross basis   101,272
Global fund banking | Current      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 25,515,573  
Loans, at gross basis   17,611,525
Investor dependent    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,971,818 4,335,195
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   4,418,884
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Investor dependent | Early stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,485,866 1,624,221
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   1,653,425
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Investor dependent | Mid stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,564,870 1,047,398
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   1,066,783
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Investor dependent | Later stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,921,082 1,663,576
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   1,698,676
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Investor dependent | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 17,667  
Loans, at gross basis   19,445
Investor dependent | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due | Early stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 6,320  
Loans, at gross basis   1,307
Investor dependent | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due | Mid stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 5,984  
Loans, at gross basis   10,025
Investor dependent | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due | Later stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 5,363  
Loans, at gross basis   8,113
Investor dependent | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,078  
Loans, at gross basis   29,561
Investor dependent | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due | Early stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,840  
Loans, at gross basis   22,062
Investor dependent | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due | Mid stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 238  
Loans, at gross basis   6,999
Investor dependent | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due | Later stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   500
Investor dependent | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,109  
Loans, at gross basis   11,292
Investor dependent | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due | Early stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 202  
Loans, at gross basis   723
Investor dependent | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due | Mid stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 907  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Investor dependent | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due | Later stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   10,569
Investor dependent |   Total Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 20,854  
Loans, at gross basis   60,298
Investor dependent |   Total Past   Due | Early stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 8,362  
Loans, at gross basis   24,092
Investor dependent |   Total Past   Due | Mid stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 7,129  
Loans, at gross basis   17,024
Investor dependent |   Total Past   Due | Later stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 5,363  
Loans, at gross basis   19,182
Investor dependent | Current      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,950,964  
Loans, at gross basis   4,358,586
Investor dependent | Current   | Early stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,477,504  
Loans, at gross basis   1,629,333
Investor dependent | Current   | Mid stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,557,741  
Loans, at gross basis   1,049,759
Investor dependent | Current   | Later stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,915,719  
Loans, at gross basis   1,679,494
Cash flow dependent    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,934,533 4,424,238
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   4,455,867
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,989,173 2,185,497
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   2,203,020
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Cash flow dependent | Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,945,360 2,238,741
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   2,252,847
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Cash flow dependent | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 6,544  
Loans, at gross basis   2,426
Cash flow dependent | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due | Sponsor led buyout    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 34  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Cash flow dependent | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due | Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 6,510  
Loans, at gross basis   2,426
Cash flow dependent | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 58  
Loans, at gross basis   3,061
Cash flow dependent | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due | Sponsor led buyout    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Cash flow dependent | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due | Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 58  
Loans, at gross basis   3,061
Cash flow dependent | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   2
Cash flow dependent | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due | Sponsor led buyout    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Cash flow dependent | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due | Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   2
Cash flow dependent |   Total Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 6,602  
Loans, at gross basis   5,489
Cash flow dependent |   Total Past   Due | Sponsor led buyout    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 34  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Cash flow dependent |   Total Past   Due | Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 6,568  
Loans, at gross basis   5,489
Cash flow dependent | Current      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,927,931  
Loans, at gross basis   4,450,378
Cash flow dependent | Current   | Sponsor led buyout    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,989,139  
Loans, at gross basis   2,203,020
Cash flow dependent | Current   | Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,938,792  
Loans, at gross basis   2,247,358
Private Bank    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,901,056 3,492,269
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   3,489,219
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   365
Private Bank | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,292  
Loans, at gross basis   6,582
Private Bank | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 3,990  
Loans, at gross basis   2,049
Private Bank | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   1,544
Private Bank |   Total Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 8,282  
Loans, at gross basis   10,175
Private Bank | Current      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,892,774  
Loans, at gross basis   3,479,044
Balance sheet dependent    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,191,023 1,286,153
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   1,297,304
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Balance sheet dependent | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 987  
Loans, at gross basis   2,731
Balance sheet dependent | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,089  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Balance sheet dependent | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Balance sheet dependent |   Total Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,076  
Loans, at gross basis   2,731
Balance sheet dependent | Current      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 2,188,947  
Loans, at gross basis   1,294,573
Premium wine    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,052,643 1,062,264
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   1,063,512
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Premium wine | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 3,168  
Loans, at gross basis   8,435
Premium wine | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
Loans, at gross basis   3,170
Premium wine | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 998  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Premium wine |   Total Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 4,166  
Loans, at gross basis   11,605
Premium wine | Current      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,048,477  
Loans, at gross basis   1,051,907
Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 27,687 867,723
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
Loans, at gross basis   890,121
  Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest   0
Other | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 3  
Loans, at gross basis   17
Other | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 28  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Other | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 82  
Loans, at gross basis   0
Other |   Total Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 113  
Loans, at gross basis   17
Other | Current      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 27,574  
Loans, at gross basis   890,104
SBA loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 1,559,530 $ 0
Loans Past Due 90 Days or More Still Accruing Interest 0  
SBA loans | 30 - 59   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
SBA loans | 60 - 89   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
SBA loans | Equal to or Greater Than 90   Days Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
SBA loans |   Total Past   Due    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost 0  
SBA loans | Current      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Loans, amortized cost $ 1,559,530  
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Nonaccrual Loans with No Allowance for Credit Loss (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans $ 104,244 $ 102,669
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 7,850 7,230
Global fund banking    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 11 0
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 11 0
Investor dependent    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 51,053 34,719
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 3,280 734
Investor dependent | Early stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 18,340 11,093
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 3 460
Investor dependent | Mid stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 4,056 17,330
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 3,159 274
Investor dependent | Later stage    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 28,657 6,296
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 118 0
Cash flow dependent    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 46,000 62,266
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 1,138 2,782
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 39,996 44,585
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 0 0
Cash flow dependent | Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 6,004 17,681
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 1,138 2,782
Private Bank    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 6,152 5,480
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 2,393 3,714
Balance sheet dependent    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 0 0
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 0 0
Premium wine    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 998 204
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 998 0
Other    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 30 0
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss 30 0
SBA loans    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]    
Nonaccrual Loans 0 0
Nonaccrual Loans with no Allowance for Credit Loss $ 0 $ 0
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Summary of Loans Modified in Troubled Debt Restructurings (TDRs) (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
troubled_debt_restructuring
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2018
USD ($)
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Number of TDRs | troubled_debt_restructuring 17    
Loans modified in TDRs $ 61,078,000 $ 108,982,000  
Unfunded commitments available for funding 0    
Partial charge-offs on loans classified as TDRs 31,100,000 11,300,000 $ 4,600,000
Investor dependent      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 35,651,000 37,978,000  
Investor dependent | Early stage      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 6,705,000 9,471,000  
Investor dependent | Mid stage      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 4,050,000 5,189,000  
Investor dependent | Later stage      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 24,896,000 23,318,000  
Cash flow dependent      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 22,766,000 55,443,000  
Cash flow dependent | Other      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 1,237,000 0  
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 21,529,000 55,443,000  
Private Bank      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 0 2,104,000  
Balance sheet dependent      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 0 0  
Premium wine      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 2,661,000 13,457,000  
Other      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 0 0  
SBA loans      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs 0 0  
Global fund banking      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs $ 0 $ 0  
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Recorded Investment in Loans Modified in TDRs (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period $ 55,669 $ 90,171 $ 41,074
Global fund banking      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 0 0 0
Investor dependent      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 31,905 29,209 28,368
Investor dependent | Early stage      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 6,112 9,471 660
Investor dependent | Mid stage      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 897 3,445 6,657
Investor dependent | Later stage      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 24,896 16,293 21,051
Cash flow dependent      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 22,766 48,153 12,386
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 21,529 48,153 0
Cash flow dependent | Other      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 1,237 0 12,386
Private Bank      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 0 1,792 320
Balance sheet dependent      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 0 0 0
Premium wine      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 998 11,017 0
Other      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 0 0 0
SBA loans      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 0 0 0
Payment deferrals      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period 54,800 86,900 $ 41,100
Partial forgiveness of principal      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
Loans modified in TDRs during the period $ 900 $ 3,300  
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Recorded Investment in Loans Modified in TDRs within Previous 12 months Subsequently Defaulted (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period $ 1,485 $ 47,933 $ 0
Global fund banking      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 0 0 0
Investor dependent      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 0 10,639 0
Investor dependent | Early stage      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 0 0 0
Investor dependent | Mid stage      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 0 0 0
Investor dependent | Later stage      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 0 10,639 0
Cash flow dependent      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 487 37,294 0
Cash flow dependent | Sponsor led buyout      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 0 37,294
Cash flow dependent | Other      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 487 0 0
Private Bank      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 0 0 0
Balance sheet dependent      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 0 0 0
Premium wine      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 998 0 0
Other      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period 0 0 0
SBA loans      
Financing Receivable, Troubled Debt Restructuring [Line Items]      
TDRs modified within the previous 12 months that defaulted in the period $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Activity in Allowance for Unfunded Commitments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance $ 304,924 $ 280,903 $ 255,024
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 189,226 94,183 84,292
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments 2,037 1,403 (2,132)
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 447,765 304,924 280,903
Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 25,464    
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   25,464  
Unfunded credit commitments      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance 67,656 55,183 51,770
Provision for (Reduction of) Loans 30,066 12,233 3,578
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments 248 240 (165)
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance 120,796 67,656 55,183
Unfunded credit commitments | Cumulative adjustment for adoption of amendment      
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]      
Allowance for credit loss, beginning balance $ 22,826 0 0
Allowance for credit loss, ending balance   $ 22,826 $ 0
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Impaired Loans as they Related to the Allowance (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses $ 95,438
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 57,571
Total carrying value of impaired loans 153,009
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    214,036
Commercial loans  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses 93,672
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 53,857
Total carrying value of impaired loans 147,529
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    205,509
Commercial loans | Software/internet  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses 64,100
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 31,472
Total carrying value of impaired loans 95,572
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    109,736
Commercial loans | Hardware  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses 2,143
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 3,315
Total carrying value of impaired loans 5,458
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    10,049
Commercial loans | Private equity/venture capital  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses 0
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 0
Total carrying value of impaired loans 0
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    0
Commercial loans | Life science/healthcare  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses 25,941
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 5,671
Total carrying value of impaired loans 31,612
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    70,600
Commercial loans | Premium wine  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses 204
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 11,718
Total carrying value of impaired loans 11,922
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    12,010
Commercial loans | Other  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses 1,284
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 1,681
Total carrying value of impaired loans 2,965
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    3,114
Consumer loans  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses 1,766
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 3,714
Total carrying value of impaired loans 5,480
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    8,527
Consumer loans | Real estate secured loans  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Impaired loans for  which there is a related allowance for loan losses 1,766
Impaired loans for  which there is no related allowance for loan losses 3,714
Total carrying value of impaired loans 5,480
Total unpaid principal of impaired loans    $ 8,527
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Average Impaired Loans, Broken out by Portfolio Segment and Class of Financing Receivable (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans $ 160,347 $ 179,666
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 4,582 2,664
Commercial loans    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 153,181 175,280
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 4,528 2,649
Commercial loans | Software/internet    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 88,628 112,493
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 2,813 1,513
Commercial loans | Hardware    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 12,500 28,540
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 464 312
Commercial loans | Private equity/venture capital    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 2,264 1,327
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 0 0
Commercial loans | Life science/healthcare    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 44,827 30,144
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 919 756
Commercial loans | Premium wine    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 2,912 2,605
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 311 68
Commercial loans | Other    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 2,050 171
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 21 0
Consumer loans    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 7,166 4,386
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 54 15
Consumer loans | Other    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 7 358
Interest income recognized on impaired loans 0 0
Consumer loans | Real estate secured loans    
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]    
Average impaired loans 7,159 4,028
Interest income recognized on impaired loans $ 54 $ 15
v3.20.4
Loans, Allowance for Loan Losses and Allowance for Unfunded Credit Commitments - Allowance for Loan Losses Individually and Collectively Evaluated for Impairment (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses $ 44,859
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 153,009
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 260,065
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 33,011,627
Commercial loans  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 44,648
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 147,529
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 238,770
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 29,240,421
Commercial loans | Premium wine  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 204
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 11,922
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 4,944
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 1,076,295
Commercial loans | Other  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 203
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 2,965
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 3,150
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 556,689
Commercial loans | Software/internet  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 26,613
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 95,572
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 73,610
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 6,103,976
Commercial loans | Hardware  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 1,214
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 5,458
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 18,430
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 1,365,701
Commercial loans | Private equity/venture capital  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 0
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 0
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 115,805
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 17,801,324
Commercial loans | Life science/healthcare  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 16,414
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 31,612
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 22,831
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 2,336,436
Consumer loans  
Financing Receivable, Impaired [Line Items]  
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 211
Individually Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans 5,480
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Allowance for loan losses 21,295
Collectively Evaluated for Impairment, Recorded investment in loans $ 3,771,206
v3.20.4
Premises and Equipment - Summary of Premises and Equipment (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]    
Computer software $ 296,324 $ 261,643
Computer hardware 91,870 82,643
Leasehold improvements 124,057 121,907
Furniture and equipment 50,036 46,300
Total 562,287 512,493
Accumulated depreciation and amortization (386,469) (350,617)
Premises and equipment, net $ 175,818 $ 161,876
v3.20.4
Premises and Equipment - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]      
Depreciation and amortization expense $ 52.8 $ 42.0 $ 38.1
v3.20.4
Leases - Lease Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]    
Lease right-of-use assets $ 209,932 $ 197,365
Lease liabilities $ 259,554 $ 218,847
v3.20.4
Leases - Lease Expense Components (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]    
Operating lease cost $ 69,249 $ 41,049
Short-term lease cost 1,404 1,823
Variable lease cost 3,692 3,477
Less: sublease income (2,265) (4,492)
Total lease expense, net 72,080 41,857
Cash paid for operating leases 50,194 44,976
Lease obligations in exchange for obtaining right-of-use assets, operating leases $ 75,244 $ 33,167
Weighted-average remaining term (in years) - operating leases 6 years 18 days 6 years 3 months 14 days
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases 2.38% 2.92%
v3.20.4
Leases - Schedule of Future Lease Payments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]    
2021 $ 51,547  
2022 48,847  
2023 48,190  
2024 42,418  
2025 32,080  
2026 and thereafter 53,842  
Total lease payments 276,924  
Less: imputed interest (17,370)  
Total lease liabilities $ 259,554 $ 218,847
v3.20.4
Leases - Lease Exits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Leases [Abstract]        
Net occupancy $ 7,600 $ 100,889 $ 69,279 $ 54,753
Premises and equipment 600 $ 127,125 $ 96,770 $ 77,918
Impairment charges on right-of-use asset 16,800      
Impairment charges on leasehold improvements, furniture, and fixtures for right-of-use asset $ 4,400      
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]      
Goodwill $ 142,685,000 $ 137,823,000 $ 0
Goodwill impairment 0    
Amortization expense $ 5,400,000    
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Goodwill (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]    
Beginning balance $ 137,823 $ 0
Acquisitions 4,862 137,823
Ending balance $ 142,685 $ 137,823
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Other intangible assets:    
Gross Amount $ 78,300 $ 60,900
Accumulated Amortization 16,865 11,483
Net Carrying Amount 61,435 49,417
Customer relationships    
Other intangible assets:    
Gross Amount 42,000 42,000
Accumulated Amortization 7,636 3,818
Net Carrying Amount 34,364 38,182
Other    
Other intangible assets:    
Gross Amount 36,300 18,900
Accumulated Amortization 9,229 7,665
Net Carrying Amount $ 27,071 $ 11,235
v3.20.4
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Future Amortization Expense (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]    
2021 $ 8,217  
2022 8,141  
2023 8,141  
2024 8,141  
2025 6,900  
2026 and thereafter 21,895  
Net Carrying Amount $ 61,435 $ 49,417
v3.20.4
Deposits - Composition of Deposits (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Deposits [Abstract]    
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits $ 66,519,240 $ 40,841,570
Interest bearing checking and savings 4,800,831 568,256
Money market 28,406,195 17,749,736
Money market deposits in foreign offices 616,570 352,437
Sweep deposits in foreign offices 950,510 2,057,715
Time 688,461 188,093
Total deposits $ 101,981,807 $ 61,757,807
v3.20.4
Deposits - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Deposits [Abstract]    
Time deposits equal to or greater than $250,000 $ 682 $ 180
Time deposits equal to or greater than $250,000 maturing within one year $ 682  
v3.20.4
Short-Term Borrowings and Long-Term Debt - Outstanding Short Term Borrowings and Long Term Debt (Details) - USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2020
Jun. 05, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Jan. 31, 2015
Debt Outstanding [Line Items]        
Short-term borrowings $ 20,553,000   $ 17,430,000  
Total long-term debt 843,628,000   347,987,000  
Senior Notes | 3.50% Senior Notes        
Debt Outstanding [Line Items]        
Principal value 350,000,000     $ 350,000,000
Total long-term debt $ 348,348,000   347,987,000  
Stated interest rate 3.50%      
Senior Notes | 3.125% Senior Notes        
Debt Outstanding [Line Items]        
Principal value $ 500,000,000 $ 500,000,000.0    
Total long-term debt $ 495,280,000   0  
Stated interest rate 3.125%      
Other short-term borrowings        
Debt Outstanding [Line Items]        
Principal value $ 20,553,000      
Short-term borrowings $ 20,553,000   $ 17,430,000  
v3.20.4
Short-Term Borrowings and Long-Term Debt - Aggregate Annual Maturities of Long-Term Debt Obligations (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]    
2020 $ 0  
2021 0  
2022 0  
2023 0  
2024 348,348  
2025 and thereafter 495,280  
Total $ 843,628 $ 347,987
v3.20.4
Short-Term Borrowings and Long-Term Debt - Interest Expense and Senior Notes (Details) - USD ($)
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Jun. 05, 2020
Jan. 31, 2015
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]          
Interest expense on debt     $ 25,100,000 $ 35,100,000 $ 46,600,000
Weighted average interest rate on short-term borrowings     80.00% 1.55%  
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Long-term debt     $ 843,628,000 $ 347,987,000  
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt     $ 495,024,000 $ 0 $ 0
Weighted average interest rate on short-term borrowings     80.00% 1.55%  
Senior Notes | 3.50% Senior Notes          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal value   $ 350,000,000 $ 350,000,000    
Stated interest rate     3.50%    
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes, net of discount and issuance cost   $ 346,400,000      
Long-term debt     $ 348,348,000 $ 347,987,000  
Debt issuance costs     1,600,000    
Discount on debt     100,000    
Senior Notes | 3.125% Senior Notes          
Debt Instrument [Line Items]          
Principal value $ 500,000,000.0   $ 500,000,000    
Stated interest rate     3.125%    
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes, net of discount and issuance cost 495,400,000        
Long-term debt     $ 495,280,000 $ 0  
Debt issuance costs     $ 4,300,000    
Discount on debt $ 400,000        
v3.20.4
Short-Term Borrowings and Long-Term Debt - Short-term Borrowings (Details)
$ in Billions
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Short-term FHLB advances  
Short-term Debt [Line Items]  
FHLB advances $ 6.8
Amount of unused FHLB credit facility 5.8
FRB advances  
Short-term Debt [Line Items]  
Carrying value of collateral pledged 0.9
Line of credit, remaining borrowing capacity 0.9
Uncommitted federal funds lines  
Short-term Debt [Line Items]  
Line of credit, remaining borrowing capacity 1.9
Master repurchase agreements  
Short-term Debt [Line Items]  
Line of credit, remaining borrowing capacity $ 4.0
v3.20.4
Derivative Financial Instruments - Interest Rate Risk (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Mar. 31, 2020
Derivative [Line Items]    
Unrealized gains on terminated cash flow hedges remaining in AOCI, before tax $ 179.0  
Unrealized gains on terminated cash flow hedges remaining in AOCI, net of tax $ 129.3  
Remaining term over which unrealized gains will be reclassified into earnings 4 years  
Interest rate swaps | Derivatives designated as hedging instruments    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Net asset fair value   $ 227.5
Notional balances   $ 5,000.0
v3.20.4
Derivative Financial Instruments - Total Notional or Contractual Amounts, Fair Value, Collateral and Net Exposure of Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Derivative [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets $ 284,831 $ 167,341
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 237,479 137,984
Total Derivative Assets, Fair Value 488,269 332,814
Total Derivative Liabilities, Fair Value 237,479 137,984
Interest rate swaps    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 0 22,676
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 0 25,623
Foreign exchange forwards    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 215,275 114,546
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 209,131 96,899
Client foreign currency options    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 1,702 1,308
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 1,702 1,308
Client interest rate derivatives    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 67,854 28,811
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 26,646 14,154
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments | Interest rate swaps | Other assets    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Assets, Notional or Contractual Amount 0 1,915,000
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 0 22,676
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments | Interest rate swaps | Other liability    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Liabilities, Notional or Contractual Amount 0 3,085,000
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 0 25,623
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 488,269 310,138
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 237,479 112,361
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign exchange forwards | Other assets    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Assets, Notional or Contractual Amount 68,381 0
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 306 0
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign exchange forwards | Other liability    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Liabilities, Notional or Contractual Amount 566,988 300,250
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 20,566 2,154
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Equity warrant assets | Other assets    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Assets, Notional or Contractual Amount 253,153 225,893
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 203,438 165,473
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Client foreign exchange forwards | Other assets    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Assets, Notional or Contractual Amount 8,025,973 4,661,517
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 214,969 114,546
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Client foreign exchange forwards | Other liability    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Liabilities, Notional or Contractual Amount 7,490,723 4,326,059
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 188,565 94,745
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Client foreign currency options | Other assets    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Assets, Notional or Contractual Amount 97,529 154,985
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 1,702 1,308
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Client foreign currency options | Other liability    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Liabilities, Notional or Contractual Amount 97,522 154,985
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 1,702 1,308
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Client interest rate derivatives | Other assets    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Assets, Notional or Contractual Amount 1,082,265 1,275,190
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 67,854 28,811
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Client interest rate derivatives | Other liability    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Derivative Liabilities, Notional or Contractual Amount 1,250,975 1,372,914
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 26,646 14,154
Reduction in derivative liabilities due to rules of clearing houses $ (45,400) $ (17,400)
v3.20.4
Derivative Financial Instruments - Summary of Derivative Activity and Related Impact on Consolidated Statements of Income (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Interest rate risks | Derivatives designated as hedging instruments | Interest income—loans      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives $ 49,928 $ (5,358) $ 0
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives (469) (409) (321)
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Revaluations of internal foreign currency instruments, net | Other noninterest income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives 39,247 1,444 (373)
Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign exchange forward contracts, net | Other noninterest income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives (39,716) (1,853) 52
Other derivative instruments | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives (457) 754 987
Other derivative instruments | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Other noninterest income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives 28,056 (1,190) (179)
Other derivative instruments | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Revaluations of internal foreign currency instruments, net | Other noninterest income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives 2,560 (15,146) 4,998
Other derivative instruments | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Foreign exchange forward contracts, net | Other noninterest income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives (3,017) 15,900 (4,011)
Equity warrant assets      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives 2,347 (2,240) 24,417
Equity warrant assets | Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments | Gains on equity warrant assets, net      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives $ 237,428 $ 138,078 $ 89,142
v3.20.4
Derivative Financial Instruments - Balance Sheet Offsetting, Assets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Derivative Assets    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets $ 284,831 $ 167,341
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 284,831 167,341
Financial Instruments (144,882) (89,112)
Cash Collateral Received (20,553) (17,430)
Net Amount 119,396 60,799
Reverse repurchase, securities borrowing, and similar arrangements    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets 226,847 289,340
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Securities purchased under agreements to resell 226,847 289,340
Financial Instruments (226,847) (289,340)
Cash Collateral Received 0 0
Net Amount 0 0
Total    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets 511,678 456,681
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 511,678 456,681
Financial Instruments (371,729) (378,452)
Cash Collateral Received (20,553) (17,430)
Net Amount 119,396 60,799
Interest rate swaps    
Derivative Assets    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets 0 22,676
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 0 22,676
Financial Instruments 0 (22,598)
Cash Collateral Received 0 0
Net Amount 0 78
Foreign exchange forwards    
Derivative Assets    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets 215,275 114,546
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 215,275 114,546
Financial Instruments (75,983) (36,855)
Cash Collateral Received (20,550) (17,095)
Net Amount 118,742 60,596
Client foreign currency options    
Derivative Assets    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets 1,702 1,308
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 1,702 1,308
Financial Instruments (1,045) (848)
Cash Collateral Received (3) (335)
Net Amount 654 125
Client interest rate derivatives    
Derivative Assets    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets 67,854 28,811
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Assets Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 67,854 28,811
Financial Instruments (67,854) (28,811)
Cash Collateral Received 0 0
Net Amount $ 0 $ 0
v3.20.4
Derivative Financial Instruments - Balance Sheet Offsetting, Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Derivative Liabilities    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities $ 237,479 $ 137,984
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 237,479 137,984
Financial Instruments (85,192) (56,521)
Cash Collateral Pledged (71,475) (38,913)
Net Amount 80,812 42,550
Repurchase, securities lending, and similar arrangements    
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase, Gross 0 0
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase, Asset 0 0
Securities Sold under Agreements to Repurchase 0 0
Financial Instruments 0 0
Cash Collateral Pledged 0 0
Net Amount 0 0
Total    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities 237,479 137,984
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 237,479 137,984
Financial Instruments (85,192) (56,521)
Cash Collateral Pledged (71,475) (38,913)
Net Amount 80,812 42,550
Interest rate swaps    
Derivative Liabilities    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities 0 25,623
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 0 25,623
Financial Instruments 0 (22,676)
Cash Collateral Pledged 0 (2,947)
Net Amount 0 0
Foreign exchange forwards    
Derivative Liabilities    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities 209,131 96,899
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 209,131 96,899
Financial Instruments (84,547) (33,314)
Cash Collateral Pledged (45,367) (22,030)
Net Amount 79,217 41,555
Client foreign currency options    
Derivative Liabilities    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities 1,702 1,308
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 1,702 1,308
Financial Instruments (645) (531)
Cash Collateral Pledged (8) 0
Net Amount 1,049 777
Client interest rate derivatives    
Derivative Liabilities    
Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities 26,646 14,154
Gross Amounts offset in the Statement of Financial Position 0 0
Net Amounts of Liabilities Presented in the Statement of Financial Position 26,646 14,154
Financial Instruments 0 0
Cash Collateral Pledged (26,100) (13,936)
Net Amount $ 546 $ 218
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Summary of Noninterest Income (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Jun. 30, 2019
Mar. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]                      
Gains on investment securities, net                 $ 420,752 $ 134,670 $ 88,094
Gains on equity warrant assets, net                 237,428 138,078 89,142
Client investment fees                 132,200 182,068 130,360
Foreign exchange fees                 178,733 159,262 138,812
Credit card fees                 97,737 118,719 94,072
Deposit service charges                 90,336 89,200 76,097
Lending related fees                 57,533 49,920 41,949
Letters of credit and standby letters of credit fees                 46,659 42,669 34,600
Investment banking revenue                 413,985 195,177 0
Commissions                 66,640 56,346 0
Other                 98,145 55,370 51,858
Noninterest income $ 621,783 $ 547,583 $ 368,848 $ 301,934 $ 313,344 $ 294,009 $ 333,750 $ 280,376 $ 1,840,148 $ 1,221,479 $ 744,984
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Gains on Investment Securities, Net (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]      
Gains on non-marketable and other equity securities, net $ 359,587 $ 138,575 $ 88,834
Gains (losses) on sales of available-for-sale debt securities, net 61,165 (3,905) (740)
Gains on investment securities, net $ 420,752 $ 134,670 $ 88,094
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Gains on Equity Warrant Assets, Net (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]      
Gains on exercises, net $ 179,648 $ 107,168 $ 58,186
Terminations (1,948) (3,502) (5,964)
Changes in fair value, net 59,728 34,412 36,920
Gains on equity warrant assets, net $ 237,428 $ 138,078 $ 89,142
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Client Investment Fees (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers $ 1,056,842 $ 880,951 $ 511,656
Sweep money market fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers 74,176 104,236 75,654
Asset management fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers 42,768 28,665 23,882
Repurchase agreement fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers 15,256 49,167 30,824
Client investment fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers $ 132,200 $ 182,068 $ 130,360
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Foreign Exchange Fees (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers $ 1,056,842 $ 880,951 $ 511,656
Revenue not from contracts with customer 783,306 340,528 233,328
Foreign exchange fees 178,733 159,262 138,812
Spot contract commissions      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers 157,852 145,915 127,459
Forward contract commissions      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue not from contracts with customer 19,849 13,068 10,940
Option premium fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue not from contracts with customer $ 1,032 $ 279 $ 413
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Credit Card Fees (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Card interchange fees, net $ 75,562 $ 93,553 $ 74,381
Revenue from contracts with customers 1,056,842 880,951 511,656
Revenue not from contracts with customer 783,306 340,528 233,328
Total credit card fees 97,737 118,719 94,072
Merchant service fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers 17,732 18,355 14,420
Card service fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue not from contracts with customer $ 4,443 $ 6,811 $ 5,271
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Lending Related Fees (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Lending related fees $ 57,533 $ 49,920 $ 41,949
Unused commitment fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Lending related fees 42,399 34,829 32,452
Other      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Lending related fees $ 15,134 $ 15,091 $ 9,497
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Investment Banking Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]      
Underwriting fees $ 352,951 $ 153,306 $ 0
Advisory fees 40,006 37,846 0
Private placements and other 21,028 4,025 0
Total investment banking revenue $ 413,985 $ 195,177 $ 0
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Summary of Other Noninterest Income (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers $ 1,056,842 $ 880,951 $ 511,656
Net gains (losses) on revaluation of foreign currency instruments, net of foreign exchange forward contracts(1) (926) 345 666
Losses on extinguishment of debt 0 (8,960) 0
Other service revenue 30,093 31,463 28,176
Other 98,145 55,370 51,858
Gains From Conversion Of Convertible Debt Options 30,018 0 0
Fund management fees      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue from contracts with customers $ 38,960 $ 32,522 $ 23,016
v3.20.4
Noninterest Income - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Jun. 30, 2019
Mar. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 $ 1,056,842 $ 880,951 $ 511,656
Revenue not from contracts with customer                 783,306 340,528 233,328
Noninterest income $ 621,783 $ 547,583 $ 368,848 $ 301,934 $ 313,344 $ 294,009 $ 333,750 $ 280,376 1,840,148 1,221,479 744,984
Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 2,818 2,158 2,393
Revenue not from contracts with customer                 506,131 191,123 118,827
Noninterest income                 508,949 193,281 121,220
Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 527,368 592,185 483,918
Revenue not from contracts with customer                 78,365 45,737 36,384
Noninterest income                 605,733 637,922 520,302
SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 3,470 2,563 2,329
Revenue not from contracts with customer                 66 803 (48)
Noninterest income                 3,536 3,366 2,281
SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 35,834 26,850 23,016
Revenue not from contracts with customer                 190,120 95,544 78,165
Noninterest income                 225,954 122,394 101,181
SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 487,352 257,195  
Revenue not from contracts with customer                 8,624 7,321  
Noninterest income                 495,976 264,516  
Client investment fees                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 132,200 182,068 130,360
Client investment fees | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Client investment fees | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 129,378 180,152 128,834
Client investment fees | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 2,822 1,916 1,526
Client investment fees | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Client investment fees | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Spot contract commissions                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 157,852 145,915 127,459
Spot contract commissions | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 583 475 323
Spot contract commissions | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 156,725 144,930 126,445
Spot contract commissions | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 544 510 691
Spot contract commissions | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Spot contract commissions | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Card interchange fees, gross                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 129,807 154,953 134,502
Card interchange fees, gross | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 1,545 756 428
Card interchange fees, gross | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 128,239 154,197 134,074
Card interchange fees, gross | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 23 0 0
Card interchange fees, gross | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Card interchange fees, gross | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Merchant service fees                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 17,732 18,355 14,420
Merchant service fees | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 1
Merchant service fees | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 17,732 18,355 14,415
Merchant service fees | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 4
Merchant service fees | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Merchant service fees | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Deposit service charges                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 90,336 89,200 76,097
Deposit service charges | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 690 927 1,641
Deposit service charges | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 89,565 88,136 74,348
Deposit service charges | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 81 137 108
Deposit service charges | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Deposit service charges | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Investment banking revenue                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 413,985 195,177  
Investment banking revenue | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Investment banking revenue | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Investment banking revenue | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Investment banking revenue | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Investment banking revenue | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 413,985 195,177  
Commissions                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 66,640 56,346  
Commissions | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Commissions | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Commissions | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Commissions | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0  
Commissions | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 66,640 56,346  
Fund management fees                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 38,960 32,522 23,016
Fund management fees | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Fund management fees | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Fund management fees | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Fund management fees | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 32,233 26,850 23,016
Fund management fees | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 6,727 5,672  
Correspondent bank rebates                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 5,729 6,415 5,802
Correspondent bank rebates | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Correspondent bank rebates | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 5,729 6,415 5,802
Correspondent bank rebates | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 0
Correspondent bank rebates | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 0 $ 0
Correspondent bank rebates | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0 $ 0  
Performance Fees [Member]                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 3,601    
Performance Fees [Member] | Other Items                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0    
Performance Fees [Member] | Global Commercial Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0    
Performance Fees [Member] | SVB Private Bank                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 0    
Performance Fees [Member] | SVB Capital                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 3,601    
Performance Fees [Member] | SVB Leerink                      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]                      
Revenue from contracts with customers                 $ 0    
v3.20.4
Other Noninterest Expense (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]      
Lending and other client related processing costs $ 29,783 $ 28,491 $ 24,237
Correspondent bank fees 15,065 14,503 13,713
Investment banking activities 20,591 13,733 0
Trade order execution costs 11,144 10,813 0
Data processing services 14,910 12,536 10,811
Telephone 8,591 9,861 9,404
Dues and publications 4,251 4,603 4,605
Postage and supplies 2,545 3,198 2,799
Other 83,295 54,841 21,682
Total other noninterest expense $ 190,175 $ 152,579 $ 87,251
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Components of Provision for Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Jun. 30, 2019
Mar. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Current provision:                      
Federal                 $ 299,882 $ 296,400 $ 249,358
State                 140,794 132,357 123,264
Deferred expense (benefit):                      
Federal                 5,296 (1,530) (11,777)
State                 1,615 (1,542) (9,284)
Income tax expense $ 148,096 $ 162,265 $ 87,869 $ 49,357 $ 94,061 $ 105,075 $ 119,114 $ 107,435 $ 447,587 $ 425,685 $ 351,561
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Reconciliation between Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate and Effective Income Tax Rate (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]      
Federal statutory income tax rate 21.00% 21.00% 21.00%
State income taxes, net of the federal tax effect 6.80% 7.00% 7.20%
Meals and entertainment 0.10% 0.40% 0.30%
Disallowed officer's compensation 0.20% 0.20% 0.20%
FDIC premiums 0.30% 0.20% 0.50%
Share-based compensation expense on incentive stock options and ESPP (0.30%) (0.60%) (1.40%)
Qualified affordable housing project tax credits (0.50%) (0.30%) (0.30%)
Tax-exempt interest income (0.80%) (0.60%) (0.60%)
Other, net 0.20% (0.10%) (0.40%)
Effective income tax rate 27.00% 27.20% 26.50%
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Deferred tax assets:    
Allowance for credit losses $ 158,161 $ 103,267
Share-based compensation expense 15,531 14,233
State income taxes 16,640 16,097
Accrued compensation 44,112 22,578
Lease liability 69,714 60,635
Other accruals 10,018 12,383
Net operating loss 7,501 6,386
Goodwill and intangibles 3,165 3,141
Foreign tax credit carryforward 9,028 0
SBA loan fees 6,115 0
Other 8,110 7,923
Deferred tax assets 348,095 246,643
Valuation allowance (7,094) (5,919)
Net deferred tax assets after valuation allowance 341,001 240,724
Deferred tax liabilities:    
Derivative equity warrant assets (71,019) (45,533)
Net unrealized gains on cash flow hedge derivatives (49,772) 0
Net unrealized gains on AFS debt securities (185,634) (33,480)
Non-marketable and other equity securities (118,712) (54,239)
Premises and equipment and other intangibles (23,721) (16,459)
Right-of-use asset and deferred rent assets (52,057) (50,493)
Other (12,340) (12,087)
Deferred tax liabilities (513,255) (212,291)
Net deferred tax assets   $ 28,433
Net deferred tax liabilities $ (172,254)  
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]        
Valuation allowance $ (7,094) $ (5,919)    
Unrecognized tax benefit 18,269 13,778 $ 14,139 $ 12,683
Unrecognized tax benefits that if recognized would reduce income tax expense 13,100      
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefit        
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]        
Unrecognized tax benefit 16,490 12,612 $ 12,689 $ 11,505
Federal        
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]        
Operating loss carryforwards 1,900 2,200    
Foreign Tax Authority        
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]        
Operating loss carryforwards $ 25,300 $ 20,800    
v3.20.4
Income Taxes - Changes in Unrecognized Tax Benefit (Including Interest and Penalties) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items]      
Beginning Balance $ 13,778 $ 14,139 $ 12,683
Additions for tax positions for current year 5,051 3,712 4,171
Additions for tax positions for prior years 2,989 889 1,454
Reduction for tax positions for prior years (799) (1,408) (2,108)
Lapse of the applicable statute of limitations (1,423) (2,395) (521)
Reduction as a result of settlement (1,327) (1,159) (1,540)
Ending Balance 18,269 13,778 14,139
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefit      
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items]      
Beginning Balance 12,612 12,689 11,505
Additions for tax positions for current year 5,051 3,712 4,171
Additions for tax positions for prior years 1,765 63 631
Reduction for tax positions for prior years (730) (884) (1,865)
Lapse of the applicable statute of limitations (1,100) (1,826) (435)
Reduction as a result of settlement (1,108) (1,142) (1,318)
Ending Balance 16,490 12,612 12,689
Interest and Penalties      
Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items]      
Beginning Balance 1,166 1,450 1,178
Additions for tax positions for current year 0 0 0
Additions for tax positions for prior years 1,224 826 823
Reduction for tax positions for prior years (69) (524) (243)
Lapse of the applicable statute of limitations (323) (569) (86)
Reduction as a result of settlement (219) (17) (222)
Ending Balance $ 1,779 $ 1,166 $ 1,450
v3.20.4
Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans - Expenses Incurred Under Certain Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Incentive Compensation Plan $ 193,004 $ 143,888 $ 160,293
Direct Drive Incentive Compensation Plan 37,681 37,315 40,578
Retention Program 0 2,438 1,438
Warrant Incentive Plan 33,921 14,881 9,112
SVBFG 401(k) Plan 29,939 25,687 21,323
SVBFG ESOP 5,807 4,197 6,435
SVB Leerink      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Incentive Compensation Plan 233,145 106,871 0
Retention Award $ 12,991 $ 12,015 $ 0
v3.20.4
Employee Compensation and Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Jan. 04, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Employee Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]        
Maximum percentage of base salary that may be deferred under the DC Plan   50.00%    
Maximum percentage of eligible bonus payment that may be deferred under the DC Plan   100.00%    
Deferrals under the DC Plan   $ 5,800,000 $ 6,900,000 $ 5,500,000
DC Plan investment gains (losses)   $ 8,500,000 (6,900,000) 1,700,000
Amortization period   30 years    
EHOP loan term, option one   5 years    
EHOP loan term, option three   10 years    
Employee Home Ownership Program, Fixed Rate Loan Term, Option Two   30 years    
Maximum loan amount percentage lesser of purchase price or the appraised value   85.00%    
Employee Home Ownership Program, Loan Term, Option Two   7 years    
Employee Home Ownership Program, Fixed Rate Loan Term, Option One   15 years    
SVB Leerink        
Employee Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]        
Incentive Compensation Plan, Deferred Portion Of Compensation Settled In Restricted Stock Awards   25.00%    
Incentive Compensation Plan, Deferred Portion Of Compensation Settled In Cash   75.00%    
Incentive Compensation Plan, Deferred Compensation Vesting Period   5 years    
Retention pool for acquiree employees $ 60,000,000      
Retention Award, Deferred Portion Of Compensation Settled In Cash   50.00%    
Retention Award, Deferred Portion Of Compensation Settled In Restricted Stock Awards   50.00%    
Vesting period of retention pool for acquiree employees 5 years      
Employee Home Ownership Plan | 12 month LIBOR        
Employee Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]        
Basis spread on EHOP loans   2.25%    
Defined Contribution Plan, The 401(k) Plan        
Employee Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]        
Maximum percentage of pre-tax income employees are allowed to contribute towards 401(k) plan   75.00%    
Maximum annual amount allowable for employee contributions   $ 19,500 $ 19,000 $ 18,500
Maximum percentage of employer matching contributions towards 401(k) plan   5.00%    
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Plan        
Employee Benefits Disclosure [Line Items]        
Maximum percentage of employee's eligible pay earned in the fiscal year contributed by the company in cash or common stock towards ESOP   10.00%    
ESOP contributions vesting period   5 years    
v3.20.4
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments - Summary Information Related to Commitments to Extend Credit (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]        
Loan commitments $ 28,975,133 $ 21,743,359    
Commercial and standby letters of credit 3,007,118 2,778,561    
Total unfunded credit commitments 31,982,251 24,521,920    
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]        
Allowance for unfunded credit commitments 447,765 304,924 $ 280,903 $ 255,024
Unfunded credit commitments        
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss [Line Items]        
Allowance for unfunded credit commitments $ 120,796 $ 67,656 $ 55,183 $ 51,770
v3.20.4
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments - Summary of Commercial and Standby Letters of Credit (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Expires In One Year or Less $ 2,920,989
Expires After One Year 86,129
Total Amount Outstanding 3,007,118
Maximum Amount of Future Payments 3,007,118
Financial standby letters of credit  
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Expires In One Year or Less 2,807,942
Expires After One Year 66,641
Total Amount Outstanding 2,874,583
Maximum Amount of Future Payments 2,874,583
Performance standby letters of credit  
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Expires In One Year or Less 108,681
Expires After One Year 19,488
Total Amount Outstanding 128,169
Maximum Amount of Future Payments 128,169
Commercial letters of credit  
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Expires In One Year or Less 4,366
Expires After One Year 0
Total Amount Outstanding 4,366
Maximum Amount of Future Payments $ 4,366
v3.20.4
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments    
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]    
Commitments expiration period 10 years  
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Lower Limit    
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]    
Fund commitments investment cycle 5 years  
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Upper Limit    
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]    
Fund commitments investment cycle 7 years  
Standby Letter of Credit    
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Line Items]    
Deferred revenue $ 16.9 $ 17.2
Collateral in the form of cash $ 1,700.0  
v3.20.4
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments - Total Capital Commitments, Unfunded Capital Commitments, and Our Ownership in Each Fund (Details)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Investment
Dec. 31, 2019
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments $ 4,261  
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments 1,516  
Growth Partners, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments 2,549  
Strategic Investors Fund, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments $ 196  
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | CP II, LP | Non-marketable securities | Direct ownership interest    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 1.30%  
Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | CP II, LP | Non-marketable securities | Indirect ownership interest    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 3.80%  
Upper Limit    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 5.00%  
Equity method accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | CP II, LP | Non-marketable securities    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 5.10% 5.10%
Equity method accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | CP II, LP | Non-marketable securities | Direct ownership interest    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 1.30%  
Equity method accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | CP II, LP | Non-marketable securities | Indirect ownership interest    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 3.80%  
Equity method accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Strategic Investors Fund II, LP | Non-marketable securities    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 8.60% 8.60%
Equity method accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Strategic Investors Fund III, LP | Non-marketable securities    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 5.90% 5.90%
Equity method accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Strategic Investors Fund IV, LP | Non-marketable securities    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 5.00% 5.00%
Equity method accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Other fund investments | Non-marketable securities    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
Number of other funds with investment commitments | Investment 168  
Equity method accounting | Upper Limit | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Other fund investments | Non-marketable securities    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 5.00%  
Parent Company    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments $ 457,878  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments 22,083  
Parent Company | CP II, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments 1,200  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments $ 162  
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 5.10%  
Parent Company | Strategic Investors Fund II, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments $ 15,000  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments $ 1,050  
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 8.60%  
Parent Company | Strategic Investors Fund III, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments $ 15,000  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments $ 1,275  
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 5.90%  
Parent Company | Strategic Investors Fund IV, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments $ 12,239  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments $ 2,325  
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 5.00%  
Parent Company | Strategic Investors Fund V funds    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments $ 515  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments 131  
Parent Company | Other venture capital and private equity fund investments    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments 25,232  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments 5,566  
Parent Company | Debt funds (equity method accounting)    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments 58,733  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments 211  
Parent Company | Other fund investments    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments 277,301  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments 9,335  
Parent Company | Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments 12,688  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments $ 0  
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 20.00%  
Parent Company | Growth Partners, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments $ 24,670  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments $ 1,340  
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 33.00%  
Parent Company | Strategic Investors Fund, LP    
Other Commitments [Line Items]    
SVBFG Capital Commitments $ 15,300  
SVBFG Unfunded Commitments $ 688  
SVBFG Ownership interest percentage 12.60%  
v3.20.4
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements, Guarantees and Other Commitments - Remaining Unfunded Commitments to Venture Capital or Private Equity Funds by our Consolidated Managed Funds (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Unfunded Commitments $ 4,261
Strategic Investors Fund, LP  
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Unfunded Commitments 196
Capital Preferred Return Fund, LP  
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Unfunded Commitments 1,516
Growth Partners, LP  
Other Commitments [Line Items]  
Unfunded Commitments $ 2,549
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities $ 30,912,438 $ 14,014,919
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 284,831 167,341
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 237,479 137,984
Interest rate swaps    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 0 22,676
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 0 25,623
Client interest rate derivatives    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 67,854 28,811
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 26,646 14,154
U.S. treasury securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 4,469,728 6,894,010
U.S. agency debentures    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 237,307 99,547
Foreign government debt securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 24,492 9,038
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 13,503,681 4,148,791
Residential mortgage-backed securities | Fixed rate    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 8,106,564 1,538,343
Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 4,570,666 1,325,190
Measured on a recurring basis    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 30,912,438 14,014,919
Total assets 31,955,334 14,672,330
Total liabilities 237,479 137,984
Measured on a recurring basis | Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 216,977 115,854
Measured on a recurring basis | Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 210,833 98,207
Measured on a recurring basis | Equity warrant assets | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 203,438 165,473
Measured on a recurring basis | Interest rate swaps | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets   22,676
Measured on a recurring basis | Interest rate swaps | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities   25,623
Measured on a recurring basis | Client interest rate derivatives | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 67,854 28,811
Measured on a recurring basis | Client interest rate derivatives | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 26,646 14,154
Measured on a recurring basis | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 554,627 324,597
Measured on a recurring basis | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities   134
Measured on a recurring basis | Other securities | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 280,804 59,200
Measured on a recurring basis | U.S. treasury securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 4,469,728 6,894,010
Measured on a recurring basis | U.S. agency debentures    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 237,307 99,547
Measured on a recurring basis | Foreign government debt securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 24,492 9,038
Measured on a recurring basis | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 13,503,681 4,148,791
Measured on a recurring basis | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Fixed rate    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 8,106,564 1,538,343
Measured on a recurring basis | Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 4,570,666 1,325,190
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 4,494,220 6,903,048
Total assets 4,537,564 6,920,338
Total liabilities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Equity warrant assets | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Interest rate swaps | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets   0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Interest rate swaps | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities   0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Client interest rate derivatives | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Client interest rate derivatives | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 43,344 17,290
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities   0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Other securities | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 43,344 17,290
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | U.S. treasury securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 4,469,728 6,894,010
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | U.S. agency debentures    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Foreign government debt securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 24,492 9,038
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Fixed rate    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 26,418,218 7,111,871
Total assets 26,951,730 7,325,557
Total liabilities 237,479 137,984
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 216,977 115,854
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 210,833 98,207
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Equity warrant assets | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 11,221 4,435
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Interest rate swaps | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets   22,676
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Interest rate swaps | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities   25,623
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Client interest rate derivatives | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 67,854 28,811
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Client interest rate derivatives | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 26,646 14,154
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 237,460 41,910
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities   0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Other securities | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 237,460 41,910
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | U.S. treasury securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | U.S. agency debentures    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 237,307 99,547
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Foreign government debt securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 13,503,681 4,148,791
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Fixed rate    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 8,106,564 1,538,343
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 4,570,666 1,325,190
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Total assets 192,217 161,172
Total liabilities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Foreign exchange forward and option contracts | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Equity warrant assets | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 192,217 161,038
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Interest rate swaps | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets   0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Interest rate swaps | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities   0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Client interest rate derivatives | Other assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Assets 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Client interest rate derivatives | Other liabilities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Fair Value, Derivative Liabilities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 0 134
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities   134
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Other securities | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | U.S. treasury securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | U.S. agency debentures    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Foreign government debt securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Agency-issued mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Residential mortgage-backed securities | Fixed rate    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Agency-issued commercial mortgage-backed securities    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Available-for-sale securities 0 0
Measured on a recurring basis | Net asset value | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Nonmarketable securities $ 273,823 $ 265,263
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Footnote Information) (Details) - Measured on a recurring basis - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Total assets $ 31,955,334 $ 14,672,330
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Total assets $ 192,217 161,172
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Noncontrolling Interests    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Total assets   $ 120
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Additional Information about Level 3 Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis (Details) - Measured on a recurring basis - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]      
Beginning Balance $ 161,172 $ 146,278 $ 122,250
Total Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Income 228,914 133,922 88,439
Purchases 0 575 0
Sales/Exits (215,037) (131,352) (78,752)
Issuances 19,014 16,453 17,941
Distributions and Other Settlements 0 3 (297)
Transfers Out of Level 3 (1,846) (4,707) (3,303)
Ending Balance 192,217 161,172 146,278
Equity warrant assets      
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]      
Beginning Balance 161,038 145,199 121,331
Total Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Income 228,944 133,910 87,982
Purchases 0 575 0
Sales/Exits (214,933) (130,392) (78,752)
Issuances 19,014 16,453 17,941
Distributions and Other Settlements 0 0 0
Transfers Out of Level 3 (1,846) (4,707) (3,303)
Ending Balance 192,217 161,038 145,199
Fair value accounting | Non-marketable securities | Unconsolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments      
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]      
Beginning Balance 134 1,079 919
Total Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Income (30) 12 457
Purchases 0 0 0
Sales/Exits (104) (960) 0
Issuances 0 0 0
Distributions and Other Settlements 0 3 (297)
Transfers Out of Level 3 0 0 0
Ending Balance $ 0 $ 134 $ 1,079
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Unrealized Gains Included in Earnings Attributable to Level 3 Assets Held (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Total unrealized gains, net $ 54,417 $ 34,469
Noncontrolling Interests    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Unrealized gains included in earnings attributable to Level 3 assets still held 0 (199)
Other assets | Equity warrant assets    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Unrealized gains included in earnings attributable to Level 3 assets still held 54,417 34,691
Non-marketable securities | Venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting    
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]    
Unrealized gains included in earnings attributable to Level 3 assets still held $ 0 $ (222)
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Quantitative Information About Significant Unobservable Inputs (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
Sales restrictions discount | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Lower Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.10  
Sales restrictions discount | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Upper Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.20  
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio)    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Fair Value $ 191,181 $ 160,692
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio)    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Fair Value $ 1,036 346
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Venture capital and private equity fund investments    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Fair Value   $ 134
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Volatility | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio) | Lower Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.244 0.236
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Volatility | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio) | Upper Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.568 0.548
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Volatility | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio) | Weighted Average    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.432 0.382
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Volatility | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Lower Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.460 0.392
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Volatility | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Upper Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.568 0.548
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Volatility | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Weighted Average    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.491 0.507
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Risk-Free Interest Rate | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio) | Lower Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.0001 0.005
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Risk-Free Interest Rate | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio) | Upper Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.005 0.019
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Risk-Free Interest Rate | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio) | Weighted Average    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.001 0.016
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Risk-Free Interest Rate | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio)    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average   1.9
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Risk-Free Interest Rate | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Lower Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.003  
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Risk-Free Interest Rate | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Upper Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.009  
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Risk-Free Interest Rate | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Weighted Average    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.006 0.019
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Sales restrictions discount | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Lower Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.100 0.100
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Sales restrictions discount | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Upper Limit    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.200 0.200
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Sales restrictions discount | Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Weighted Average    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.102 0.136
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Marketability discount | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio)    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 20.6 17.5
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Marketability discount | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio) | Weighted Average    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.206 0.175
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Remaining life assumption | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio)    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 40.0 45.0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Remaining life assumption | Equity warrant assets (private portfolio) | Weighted Average    
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]    
Weighted Average 0.400 0.450
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Quantitative Information About Significant Unobservable Inputs (Footnote Information) (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Lower Limit  
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]  
Duration of the sale restrictions 3 months
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Upper Limit  
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]  
Duration of the sale restrictions 6 months
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Sales restrictions discount | Lower Limit  
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]  
Weighted Average 0.10
Equity warrant assets (public portfolio) | Sales restrictions discount | Upper Limit  
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]  
Weighted Average 0.20
Equity warrant assets (private portfolio)  
Fair Value Measurement Inputs and Valuation Techniques [Line Items]  
Weighted average contractual remaining term 6 years
Estimated remaining life 2 years 4 months 24 days
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Summary of Estimated Fair Values of Financial Instruments not Carried at Fair Value (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Held-to-maturity securities $ 17,216,871 $ 14,115,272
Time deposits 688,461 188,093
Net loans 44,733,723 32,859,712
Carrying Amount    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Cash and cash equivalents 17,674,763 6,781,783
Held-to-maturity securities 16,592,153 13,842,946
Non-marketable securities not measured at net asset value 240,761 195,405
Non-marketable securities measured at net asset value 390,658 235,351
FHLB and FRB stock 61,232 60,258
Non-maturity deposits 101,293,346 61,569,714
Time deposits 688,461 188,093
Commitments to extend credit 0 0
Carrying Amount | Other short-term borrowings    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Short-term borrowings 20,553 17,430
Carrying Amount | 3.50% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 348,348 347,987
Carrying Amount | 3.125% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 495,280  
Estimated Fair Value    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Cash and cash equivalents 17,674,763 6,781,783
Held-to-maturity securities 17,216,871 14,115,272
Non-marketable securities not measured at net asset value 240,761 195,405
Non-marketable securities measured at net asset value 390,658 235,351
FHLB and FRB stock 61,232 60,258
Non-maturity deposits 101,293,346 61,569,714
Time deposits 501,853 187,980
Commitments to extend credit 36,672 27,197
Estimated Fair Value | Other short-term borrowings    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Short-term borrowings 20,553 17,430
Estimated Fair Value | 3.50% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 382,855 366,856
Estimated Fair Value | 3.125% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 563,840  
Estimated Fair Value | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Cash and cash equivalents 17,674,763 6,781,783
Held-to-maturity securities 0 0
Non-marketable securities not measured at net asset value 0 0
FHLB and FRB stock 0 0
Non-maturity deposits 101,293,346 61,569,714
Time deposits 0 0
Commitments to extend credit 0 0
Estimated Fair Value | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | Other short-term borrowings    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Short-term borrowings 0 0
Estimated Fair Value | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | 3.50% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 0 0
Estimated Fair Value | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) | 3.125% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 0  
Estimated Fair Value | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Cash and cash equivalents 0 0
Held-to-maturity securities 17,216,871 14,115,272
Non-marketable securities not measured at net asset value 0 0
FHLB and FRB stock 0 0
Non-maturity deposits 0 0
Time deposits 501,853 187,980
Commitments to extend credit 0 0
Estimated Fair Value | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | Other short-term borrowings    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Short-term borrowings 20,553 17,430
Estimated Fair Value | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | 3.50% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 382,855 366,856
Estimated Fair Value | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) | 3.125% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 563,840  
Estimated Fair Value | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Cash and cash equivalents 0 0
Held-to-maturity securities 0 0
Non-marketable securities not measured at net asset value 240,761 195,405
FHLB and FRB stock 61,232 60,258
Non-maturity deposits 0 0
Time deposits 0 0
Commitments to extend credit 36,672 27,197
Estimated Fair Value | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | Other short-term borrowings    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Short-term borrowings 0 0
Estimated Fair Value | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | 3.50% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 0 0
Estimated Fair Value | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) | 3.125% Senior Notes    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Senior Notes 0  
Commercial loans | Carrying Amount    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans 39,886,296 29,104,532
Commercial loans | Estimated Fair Value    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans 40,412,490 29,615,176
Commercial loans | Estimated Fair Value | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans 0 0
Commercial loans | Estimated Fair Value | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans 0 0
Commercial loans | Estimated Fair Value | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans 40,412,490 29,615,176
Consumer loans | Carrying Amount    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans 4,847,427 3,755,180
Consumer loans | Estimated Fair Value    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans 4,911,451 3,820,804
Consumer loans | Estimated Fair Value | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans 0 0
Consumer loans | Estimated Fair Value | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2)    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans 0 0
Consumer loans | Estimated Fair Value | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)    
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]    
Net loans $ 4,911,451 $ 3,820,804
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Summary of Estimated Fair Values of Investments and Remaining Unfunded Commitments for Each Major Category of Investments (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Carrying Amount $ 664,482
Fair Value 664,482
Unfunded Commitments 24,315
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Fair value accounting  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Carrying Amount 273,823
Fair Value 273,823
Unfunded Commitments 12,709
Non-marketable securities | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments | Equity method accounting  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Carrying Amount 362,192
Fair Value 362,192
Unfunded Commitments 10,509
Non-marketable securities | Debt funds | Equity method accounting  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Carrying Amount 5,444
Fair Value 5,444
Unfunded Commitments 211
Non-marketable securities | Other investments | Equity method accounting  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Carrying Amount 23,023
Fair Value 23,023
Unfunded Commitments $ 886
v3.20.4
Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Summary of Estimated Fair Values of Investments and Remaining Unfunded Commitments for Each Major Category of Investments (Footnote Information) (Details)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Fair value $ 664,482
Unfunded commitments 24,315
Non-marketable securities | Fair value accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Fair value 273,823
Unfunded commitments 12,709
Non-marketable securities | Fair value accounting | Noncontrolling Interests | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Fair value 66,200
Unfunded commitments $ 3,100
Non-marketable securities | Fair value accounting | Lower Limit  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Estimated future period of distributions from the fund investments 10 years
Non-marketable securities | Fair value accounting | Upper Limit  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Estimated future period of distributions from the fund investments 13 years
Non-marketable securities | Equity method accounting | Consolidated venture capital and private equity fund investments  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Fair value $ 362,192
Unfunded commitments 10,509
Non-marketable securities | Equity method accounting | Other investments  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Fair value 23,023
Unfunded commitments $ 886
Non-marketable securities | Equity method accounting | Lower Limit  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Estimated future period of distributions from the fund investments 5 years
Non-marketable securities | Equity method accounting | Upper Limit  
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]  
Estimated future period of distributions from the fund investments 8 years
v3.20.4
Regulatory Matters - Capital Ratios for Company and Bank under Federal Regulatory Guidelines (Details)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2019
USD ($)
SVB Financial Group    
CET 1 risk-based capital, Actual Capital Ratios 0.1104 0.1258
CET 1 risk-based capital, Required Capital Ratios 7.00% 7.00%
CET 1 risk-based capital, Actual Capital Amounts $ 7,138,006 $ 5,857,744
CET 1 risk-based capital, Required Capital Amounts $ 4,527,647 $ 3,260,424
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Actual Capital Ratios 0.1189 0.1343
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Required Capital Ratios 0.085 0.085
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Ratios 0.060 0.060
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Actual Capital Amounts $ 7,691,936 $ 6,257,442
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Required Capital Amounts 5,497,857 3,959,086
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Amounts $ 3,880,840 $ 2,794,649
Total risk-based capital, Actual Capital Ratios 0.1264 0.1423
Total risk-based capital, Required Capital Ratios 0.105 0.105
Total risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Ratios 0.100 0.100
Total risk-based capital, Actual Capital Amounts $ 8,175,430 $ 6,630,022
Total risk-based capital, Required Capital Amounts 6,791,470 4,890,636
Total risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Amounts $ 6,468,066 $ 4,657,748
Tier 1 leverage, Actual Capital Ratios 0.0745 0.0906
Tier 1 leverage, Required Capital Ratios 0.040 0.040
Tier 1 leverage, Actual Capital Amounts $ 7,691,936 $ 6,257,442
Tier 1 leverage, Required Capital Amounts $ 4,128,596 $ 2,763,146
Silicon Valley Bank    
CET 1 risk-based capital, Actual Capital Ratios 0.1070 0.1112
CET 1 risk-based capital, Required Capital Ratios 7.00% 7.00%
CET 1 risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Ratios 6.50% 6.50%
CET 1 risk-based capital, Actual Capital Amounts $ 6,530,167 $ 4,949,393
CET 1 risk-based capital, Required Capital Amounts 4,271,642 3,115,151
CET 1 risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Amounts $ 3,966,525 $ 2,892,640
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Actual Capital Ratios 0.1070 0.1112
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Required Capital Ratios 0.085 0.085
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Ratios 0.080 0.080
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Actual Capital Amounts $ 6,530,167 $ 4,949,393
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Required Capital Amounts 5,186,994 3,782,683
Tier 1 risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Amounts $ 4,881,877 $ 3,560,172
Total risk-based capital, Actual Capital Ratios 0.1149 0.1196
Total risk-based capital, Required Capital Ratios 0.105 0.105
Total risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Ratios 0.100 0.100
Total risk-based capital, Actual Capital Amounts $ 7,013,630 $ 5,321,850
Total risk-based capital, Required Capital Amounts 6,407,463 4,672,726
Total risk-based capital, Well Capitalized Capital Amounts $ 6,102,346 $ 4,450,215
Tier 1 leverage, Actual Capital Ratios 0.0643 0.0730
Tier 1 leverage, Required Capital Ratios 0.040 0.040
Tier 1 leverage, Well Capitalized Capital Ratios 0.050 0.050
Tier 1 leverage, Actual Capital Amounts $ 6,530,167 $ 4,949,393
Tier 1 leverage, Required Capital Amounts 4,060,180 2,713,367
Tier 1 leverage, Well Capitalized Capital Amounts $ 5,075,225 $ 3,391,709
v3.20.4
Segment Reporting - Additional Information (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Number of reportable segments 4
v3.20.4
Segment Reporting - Segment Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Jun. 30, 2019
Mar. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Net interest income $ 591,480 $ 527,740 $ 512,927 $ 524,137 $ 533,668 $ 520,644 $ 529,403 $ 512,886 $ 2,156,284 $ 2,096,601 $ 1,893,988
Provision for credit losses                 (219,510) (106,416) (87,870)
Noninterest income 621,783 547,583 368,848 301,934 313,344 294,009 333,750 280,376 1,840,148 1,221,479 744,984
Noninterest expense $ (664,799) $ (491,021) $ (479,636) $ (399,585) $ (460,752) $ (391,324) $ (383,522) $ (365,664) (2,035,041) (1,601,262) (1,188,193)
Income before income tax expense                 1,741,881 1,610,402 1,362,909
Total average loans, net of unearned income                 37,265,976 29,916,207 25,630,520
Total average assets                 85,791,659 63,211,630 55,229,060
Total average deposits                 75,015,430 55,056,950 48,075,344
Global Commercial Bank                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Noninterest income                 605,733 637,922 520,302
Income before income tax expense                 1,444,991 1,521,645  
SVB Private Bank                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Noninterest income                 3,536 3,366 2,281
Income before income tax expense                 13,598 11,868  
SVB Capital                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Noninterest income                 225,954 122,394 101,181
Income before income tax expense                 175,395 91,634  
SVB Leerink                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Noninterest income                 495,976 264,516  
Income before income tax expense                 117,584 13,090  
Operating segments | Global Commercial Bank                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Net interest income                 2,025,240 1,850,391 1,623,488
Provision for credit losses                 (165,987) (91,814) (80,953)
Noninterest income                 605,733 637,922 520,302
Noninterest expense                 (1,019,995) (874,854) (793,159)
Income before income tax expense                     1,269,678
Total average loans, net of unearned income                 31,218,037 26,031,284 22,354,305
Total average assets                 75,034,226 56,043,321 48,854,416
Total average deposits                 72,127,148 53,053,665 46,039,570
Operating segments | SVB Private Bank                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Net interest income                 77,490 51,022 64,902
Provision for credit losses                 (21,329) (2,369) (3,339)
Noninterest income                 3,536 3,366 2,281
Noninterest expense                 (46,099) (40,151) (25,064)
Income before income tax expense                     38,780
Total average loans, net of unearned income                 4,195,804 3,341,188 2,850,271
Total average assets                 4,229,818 3,371,052 2,871,743
Total average deposits                 2,171,556 1,524,232 1,502,308
Operating segments | SVB Capital                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Net interest income                 30 38 23
Provision for credit losses                 0 0 0
Noninterest income                 225,954 122,394 101,181
Noninterest expense                 (50,589) (30,798) (22,792)
Income before income tax expense                     78,412
Total average loans, net of unearned income                 0 0 0
Total average assets                 437,132 405,152 380,543
Total average deposits                 0 0 0
Operating segments | SVB Leerink                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Net interest income                 578 1,252 0
Provision for credit losses                 0 0 0
Noninterest income                 495,976 264,516 0
Noninterest expense                 (378,970) (252,678) 0
Income before income tax expense                     0
Total average loans, net of unearned income                 0 0 0
Total average assets                 556,778 397,650 0
Total average deposits                 0 0 0
Other Items                      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]                      
Net interest income                 52,946 193,898 205,575
Provision for credit losses                 (32,194) (12,233) (3,578)
Noninterest income                 508,949 193,281 121,220
Noninterest expense                 (539,388) (402,781) (347,178)
Income before income tax expense                 (9,687) (27,835) (23,961)
Total average loans, net of unearned income                 1,852,135 543,735 425,944
Total average assets                 5,533,705 2,994,455 3,122,358
Total average deposits                 $ 716,726 $ 479,053 $ 533,466
v3.20.4
Segment Reporting - Segment Information (Additional Information) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Goodwill $ 142,685 $ 137,823 $ 0
Operating segments | Global Commercial Bank      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Depreciation and amortization 25,300 $ 20,400 $ 21,800
Operating segments | SVB Leerink      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Goodwill $ 137,800    
v3.20.4
Parent Company Only Condensed Financial Information - Condensed Balance Sheets (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 17,674,763 $ 6,781,783
Investment securities 49,306,826 29,071,694
Loans, amortized cost 45,181,488 33,164,636
Lease right-of-use assets 209,932 197,365
Other assets 3,205,825 1,745,233
Total assets 115,511,007 71,004,903
Liabilities and total equity    
Lease liabilities 259,554 218,847
Other liabilities 3,971,974 2,041,752
Total liabilities 107,077,516 64,383,823
SVBFG stockholders' equity 8,219,700 6,470,307
Total liabilities and total equity 115,511,007 71,004,903
Parent Company    
Assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents 670,738 800,926
Investment securities 666,860 474,842
Loans, amortized cost 682 15,245
Lease right-of-use assets 99,363 71,847
Other assets 260,331 214,167
Total assets 9,433,935 7,043,195
Liabilities and total equity    
Lease liabilities 134,607 87,999
Other liabilities 236,000 136,903
Total liabilities 1,214,235 572,889
SVBFG stockholders' equity 8,219,700 6,470,306
Total liabilities and total equity 9,433,935 7,043,195
Parent Company | 3.125% Senior Notes    
Liabilities and total equity    
Senior Notes 495,280 0
Parent Company | 3.50% Senior Notes    
Liabilities and total equity    
Senior Notes 348,348 347,987
Parent Company | Bank Subsidiary    
Assets:    
Investment in subsidiaries 7,068,964 5,034,095
Parent Company | Nonbank Subsidiaries    
Assets:    
Investment in subsidiaries $ 666,997 $ 432,073
v3.20.4
Parent Company Only Condensed Financial Information - Condensed Statements of Income (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Jun. 30, 2019
Mar. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]                      
Interest income $ 607,558 $ 543,127 $ 523,523 $ 567,402 $ 588,735 $ 583,892 $ 585,767 $ 551,014 $ 2,241,610 $ 2,309,408 $ 1,969,909
Interest expense (16,078) (15,387) (10,596) (43,265) (55,067) (63,248) (56,364) (38,128) (85,326) (212,807) (75,921)
Gains on equity warrant assets, net                 237,428 138,078 89,142
Gains on investment securities, net                 420,752 134,670 88,094
Income tax expense (148,096) (162,265) (87,869) (49,357) (94,061) (105,075) (119,114) (107,435) (447,587) (425,685) (351,561)
Preferred stock dividends (4,594) (4,594) (4,594) (3,369)         (17,151) 0 0
Net income available to common stockholders $ 388,316 $ 441,713 $ 228,935 $ 132,253 $ 262,856 $ 267,281 $ 317,987 $ 288,732 1,191,217 1,136,856 973,840
Parent Company                      
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]                      
Interest income                 2,849 4,473 3,307
Interest expense                 (21,565) (31,666) (32,037)
Dividend income from bank subsidiary                 50,000 733,000 140,000
Gains on equity warrant assets, net                 226,942 138,078 89,142
Gains on investment securities, net                 157,594 45,345 13,546
Fund management fees and other noninterest income                 62,046 21,567 26,388
General and administrative expenses                 (120,863) (94,712) (70,976)
Income tax expense                 (145,790) (40,218) (14,383)
Income before net income of subsidiaries                 211,213 775,867 154,987
Net income before preferred stock dividend                 1,208,368 1,136,856 973,840
Preferred stock dividends                 (17,151) 0 0
Net income available to common stockholders                 1,191,217 1,136,856 973,840
Parent Company | Bank Subsidiary                      
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]                      
Income before net income of subsidiaries                 826,243 1,036,618 933,641
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries                 776,243 303,618 793,641
Parent Company | Nonbank Subsidiaries                      
Condensed Income Statements, Captions [Line Items]                      
Income before net income of subsidiaries                 220,912 57,371 25,212
Equity in undistributed net income of subsidiaries                 $ 220,912 $ 57,371 $ 25,212
v3.20.4
Parent Company Only Condensed Financial Information - Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Condensed Statement of Income Captions [Line Items]      
Changes in fair value on bank cash flow hedges, net of reclassification adjustments in bank net income $ 129,300    
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 538,072 $ 138,565 $ (52,648)
Comprehensive income attributable to SVBFG 1,746,440 1,275,421 921,192
Parent Company      
Condensed Statement of Income Captions [Line Items]      
Net income before preferred stock dividend 1,208,368 1,136,856 973,840
Foreign currency translation gains (losses) 11,846 2,319 (4,107)
Changes in unrealized holding gains and losses on AFS securities 70 2,310 120
Changes in fair value on bank cash flow hedges, net of reclassification adjustments in bank net income 131,403 (2,130) 0
Equity in other comprehensive income (loss) of bank and nonbank subsidiaries 394,753 136,066 (19,171)
Reclassifications to retained earnings for the adoption of new accounting guidance 0 0 (29,490)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 538,072 138,565 (52,648)
Comprehensive income attributable to SVBFG $ 1,746,440 $ 1,275,421 $ 921,192
v3.20.4
Parent Company Only Condensed Financial Information - Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used for operating activities:      
Gains on investment securities, net $ (420,752) $ (134,670) $ (88,094)
Gains on derivatives, net (237,428) (138,078) (89,142)
Amortization of share-based compensation 83,986 66,815 45,675
Other, net (287,905) (74,240) (54,039)
Net cash provided by operating activities 1,445,487 1,164,129 933,562
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Net decrease (increase) in loans (11,926,436) (4,773,775) (5,175,409)
Business acquisitions 26,700 102,328 0
Net cash used for investing activities (31,205,721) (9,371,882) (4,800,375)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Principal payments of long-term debt 0 (358,395) 0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, ESPP and ESOP 31,146 24,818 18,387
Net proceeds from the issuance of preferred stock 0 340,138 0
Payment of preferred stock dividends (17,151) 0 0
Common stock repurchase (60,020) (352,511) (147,123)
Net cash provided by financing activities 40,653,214 11,417,997 4,515,277
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 10,892,980 3,210,244 648,464
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 6,781,783 3,571,539 2,923,075
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 17,674,763 6,781,783 3,571,539
Parent Company      
Condensed Cash Flow Statements, Captions [Line Items]      
Net income before preferred stock dividend 1,208,368 1,136,856 973,840
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used for operating activities:      
Gains on equity warrant assets, net (30,018) 0 0
Gains on investment securities, net (157,594) (45,345) (13,546)
Gains on derivatives, net (226,942) (138,078) (89,142)
Distributions of earnings from investment securities 65,237 49,776 47,596
Net income of subsidiaries (211,213) (775,867) (154,987)
Cash dividends from bank subsidiary 50,000 733,000 140,000
Amortization of share-based compensation 83,986 66,815 45,675
Decrease in other assets 17,189 27,205 51,169
Increase in other liabilities 98,209 21,391 21,619
Other, net 13,206 8,084 (31,024)
Net cash provided by operating activities 74,486 765,715 187,334
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Net decrease in investment securities from purchases, sales and maturities 122,823 128,635 73,742
Net decrease (increase) in loans 14,563 (15,245) 0
Net cash used for investing activities (653,673) (171,888) 37,127
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Principal payments of long-term debt 0 (358,395) 0
Proceeds from issuance of 3.125% Senior Notes 495,024 0 0
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, ESPP and ESOP 31,146 24,818 18,387
Net proceeds from the issuance of preferred stock 0 340,138 0
Payment of preferred stock dividends   0 0
Common stock repurchase (60,020) (352,511) (147,123)
Net cash provided by financing activities 448,999 (345,950) (128,736)
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents (130,188) 247,877 95,725
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 800,926 553,049 457,324
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 670,738 800,926 553,049
Bank Subsidiary | Parent Company      
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used for operating activities:      
Net income of subsidiaries (826,243) (1,036,618) (933,641)
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Increase (decrease) in investment in subsidiaries (68,630) (42,952) (31,292)
Capital Infusion In Bank Subsidiary (700,000) 0 0
Nonbank Subsidiaries | Parent Company      
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used for operating activities:      
Net income of subsidiaries (220,912) (57,371) (25,212)
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Increase (decrease) in investment in subsidiaries 4,271 23,275 (5,323)
Business acquisitions $ 26,700 $ 265,601 $ 0
v3.20.4
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data - Supplemental Consolidated Financial Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Sep. 30, 2020
Jun. 30, 2020
Mar. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Sep. 30, 2019
Jun. 30, 2019
Mar. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2020
Dec. 31, 2019
Dec. 31, 2018
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]                      
Interest income $ 607,558 $ 543,127 $ 523,523 $ 567,402 $ 588,735 $ 583,892 $ 585,767 $ 551,014 $ 2,241,610 $ 2,309,408 $ 1,969,909
Interest expense 16,078 15,387 10,596 43,265 55,067 63,248 56,364 38,128 85,326 212,807 75,921
Net interest income 591,480 527,740 512,927 524,137 533,668 520,644 529,403 512,886 2,156,284 2,096,601 1,893,988
Provision for (reduction) credit losses (38,433) (52,018) 66,481 243,480 17,383 36,536 23,946 28,551 219,510 106,416 87,870
Noninterest income 621,783 547,583 368,848 301,934 313,344 294,009 333,750 280,376 1,840,148 1,221,479 744,984
Noninterest expense 664,799 491,021 479,636 399,585 460,752 391,324 383,522 365,664 2,035,041 1,601,262 1,188,193
Income before income tax expense 586,897 636,320 335,658 183,006 368,877 386,793 455,685 399,047      
Income tax expense 148,096 162,265 87,869 49,357 94,061 105,075 119,114 107,435 447,587 425,685 351,561
Net income before noncontrolling interests 438,801 474,055 247,789 133,649 274,816 281,718 336,571 291,612 1,294,294 1,184,717 1,011,348
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests (45,891) (27,748) (14,260) 1,973 (11,960) (14,437) (18,584) (2,880) (85,926) (47,861) (37,508)
Preferred stock dividends (4,594) (4,594) (4,594) (3,369)         (17,151) 0 0
Net income available to common stockholders $ 388,316 $ 441,713 $ 228,935 $ 132,253 $ 262,856 $ 267,281 $ 317,987 $ 288,732 $ 1,191,217 $ 1,136,856 $ 973,840
Earnings per common share—basic (usd per share) $ 7.49 $ 8.53 $ 4.44 $ 2.56 $ 5.10 $ 5.19 $ 6.12 $ 5.49 $ 23.05 $ 21.90 $ 18.35
Earnings per common share—diluted (usd per share) $ 7.40 $ 8.47 $ 4.42 $ 2.55 $ 5.06 $ 5.15 $ 6.08 $ 5.44 $ 22.87 $ 21.73 $ 18.11
v3.20.4
Subsequent Events (Details)
 12 Months Ended
Feb. 02, 2021
USD ($)
$ / shares
shares
Jan. 04, 2021
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2020
$ / shares
shares
Dec. 31, 2019
$ / shares
shares
Subsequent Event [Line Items]        
Preferred stock, shares issued | shares     350,000 350,000
Preferred stock, par value | $ / shares     $ 0.001 $ 0.001
Subsequent Event | Global fund banking        
Subsequent Event [Line Items]        
Potential credit exposure related to loan transaction under investigation | $ $ 70,000,000      
Subsequent Event | Senior Notes | 1.800% Senior Notes        
Subsequent Event [Line Items]        
Principal value | $ $ 500,000,000      
Stated interest rate 1.80%      
Subsequent Event | Series B Preferred Stock        
Subsequent Event [Line Items]        
Preferred stock, depositary share ownership interest 1.00%      
Preferred stock, shares issued | shares 750,000      
Preferred stock, par value | $ / shares $ 0.001      
Preferred stock, liquidation preference (usd per share) | $ / shares 100,000      
Preferred stock, liquidation preference per depositary share (usd per share) | $ / shares $ 1,000      
Preferred stock, dividend rate (percent) 4.10%      
Preferred stock, period interval for subsequent rate calculations 10 years      
Preferred stock, dividend rate, percentage margin 3.064%      
Subsequent Event | Boston Private Financial Holdings, Inc.        
Subsequent Event [Line Items]        
Total consideration | $   $ 900,000,000    
Cash issued per acquiree share | $   $ 2.10    
Entity shares issued per acquiree share   0.0228