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ITEM 1. BUSINESS

Independent Bank Corporation was incorporated under the laws of the State of Michigan on September 17, 1973, for the purpose of becoming a bank holding company. We are registered under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956, as amended, and own the outstanding stock of four banks (the “Banks”) which are all organized under the laws of the State of Michigan.

Aside from the stock of our Banks, we have no other substantial assets. We conduct no business except for the provision of certain management and operational services to our Banks, the collection of fees and dividends from our Banks and the payment of dividends to...