Bank of America (NYSE:BAC) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the largest financial institutions in the United States, with more than $3.0 trillion in assets. It is organized into four major segments: consumer banking, global wealth and investment management, global banking, and global markets. Bank of America's consumer-facing lines of business include its network of branches and deposit-gathering operations, retail lending products, credit and debit cards, and small-business services. The company's Merrill Lynch operations provide brokerage and wealth-management services, as does its private bank. Wholesale lines of business include investment banking, corporate and commercial real estate lending, and capital markets operations. Bank of America has operations in several countries but is primarily US-focused.

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Bank of America shares are trading higher by 1.2% during Tuesday&#39;s session. The stock is marginally higher following the release of softer-than-expected December PPI data.

What&#39;s Going On With Bank Of America (BAC) Shares

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The CNN Money Fear and Greed index showed some improvement in overall market sentiment, while the index remained in the &#34;Fear&#34; zone on Monday.

Dow Surges Over 350 Points, Nasdaq Falls: Investor Sentiment Improves Slightly, But Greed Index Remains In &#39;Fear&#39; Zone

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Analyst Ratings

Trading Ideas

Bank of America Gears Up For Q4 Print; Here Are The Recent Forecast Changes From Wall Street&#39;s Most Accurate Analysts

Bank of America Corp

BERENSON ACQUISITION CORP I CL A

Berenson Acquisition Corp I Warrants (01/08/2026)

BANK OF CHINA LTD ORD by Bank of China, Ltd.

Bank Of China Ltd

BANK OF CHINA UNSP/ADR by Bank of China, Ltd.

IMAC Holdings Inc

Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. I - Class A Ordinary Shares

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BANK OF AMERICA 7.00B PFD by Bank of America Corp.

Bank of America Corporation Depositary Shares, each representing a 1/1,000th interest in a share of 6.000% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series GG

Bank of America Corporation Depositary Sh repstg 1/1000th Perp Pfd Ser E

Bank of America Corporation Depositary Shares, each representing a 1/1,000th interest in a share of 5.875% Non- Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series HH

Bank of America Corporation Non Cumulative Perpetual Conv Pfd Ser L

Bank of America Corporation Depositary Shares, each representing a 1/1,000th interest in a share of 5.375% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series KK

Bank of America Corporation Depositary shares, each representing 1/1,000th interest in a share of 5.000% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series LL

Bank of America Corporation Depositary shares, each representing 1/1,000th interest in a share of 4.375% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series NN

Bank of America Corporation Depositary Shares, each representing a 1/1,000th interest in a share of 4.125% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series PP

Bank of America Corporation Depositary shares, each representing 1/1,000th interest in a share of 4.250% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series QQ

Bank of America Corporation Depositary shares, each representing 1/1,000th interest in a share of 4.750% Non-Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series SS

Bank of America Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) shares are trading higher by 0.85% to $45.43 during Tuesday&#8217;s session. The stock is marginally higher following the release of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42973016/producer-prices-rise-less-than-expected-offer-opportunity-for-market-rebound">softer-than-expected</a> December Producer Price Index (PPI) data, as investors potentially viewed the report as a sign that inflationary pressures might be easing without requiring aggressive Federal Reserve intervention.
What To Know: As a major financial institution, Bank of America is particularly sensitive to interest rate dynamics, given its reliance on net interest income—profits derived from the spread between interest earned on loans and interest paid on deposits.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42974632/us-listed-chinese-stocks-rally-on-strong-trade-data-central-bank-support-goldman-forecasts-20-growth">US Listed Chinese Stocks Rally on Strong Trade Data, Central Bank Support, Goldman Forecasts 20% Growth</a>
The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/42974739/wall-street-rebounds-as-producer-inflation-misses-estimates-tesla-gains-chinese-stocks-rally">deceleration in monthly core PPI</a> and the weaker annual figures suggest that inflation may be stabilizing, potentially reducing the need for the Federal Reserve to raise rates.
What Else: Lower-than-anticipated rate hikes could benefit Bank of America by supporting loan demand and keeping borrowing costs manageable for its retail and commercial clients. Moreover, reduced inflation pressures could mitigate concerns about credit deterioration in the bank&#8217;s loan portfolio, as consumers and businesses face less financial strain.
Bank of America also stands to gain from continued economic stability, as a less hawkish Fed reduces the risk of a hard landing that could curb credit growth and capital markets activity.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/01/42978236/us-electric-vehicle-sales-hit-record-1-3-million-units-in-2024-despite-tesla-declines-top-10-bestselling-models-list">US Electric Vehicle Sales Hit Record 1.3 Million Units In 2024, Despite Tesla Declines: Top 10 Bestselling Models List</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How To Buy BAC Stock</h2>
Besides going to a brokerage platform to purchase a share &#8211; or fractional share &#8211; of stock, you can also gain access to shares either by buying an exchange traded fund (ETF) that holds the stock itself, or by allocating yourself to a strategy in your 401(k) that would seek to acquire shares in a mutual fund or other instrument. 
For example, in Bank of America&#8217;s case, it is in the Financials sector. An ETF will likely hold shares in many liquid and large companies that help track that sector, allowing an investor to gain exposure to the trends within that segment.
According to data from&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>, BAC has a 52-week high of $48.08 and a 52-week low of $31.27.

What's Going On With Bank Of America (BAC) Shares

The CNN Money Fear and Greed index showed some improvement in overall market sentiment, while the index remained in the &#8220;Fear&#8221; zone on Monday.
U.S. stocks settled mixed on Monday, with the Dow Jones index surging more than 350 points during the session. However, the Nasdaq settled lower amid a decline in tech stocks.
Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) shares fell 3.4%, while Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) declined around 2% on Monday.
On the economic data front, U.S. consumer inflation expectations for the year ahead came in unchanged at 3% in December, the same as in the previous month.
Most sectors on the S&amp;P 500 closed on a positive note, with energy, materials and healthcare stocks recording gains on Monday. However, utilities and information technology stocks bucked the overall market trend, closing the session lower.
The Dow Jones closed higher by around 359 points to 42,297.12 on Monday. The S&amp;P 500 rose 0.16% to 5,836.22, while the Nasdaq Composite fell 0.38% at 19,088.10 during Monday's session.
Investors are awaiting earnings results from Calavo Growers, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVGW#NASDAQ">CVGW</a>), Karooooo Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KARO#NASDAQ">KARO</a>) and Applied Digital Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APLD#NASDAQ">APLD</a>) today.
Big banks including Citigroup (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>), Goldman Sachs (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>), JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>), Morgan Stanley (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MS#NYSE">MS</a>) and Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) will release earnings this week.
At a current reading of 26.7, the index remained in the &#8220;Fear&#8221; zone on Monday, versus a prior reading of 26.4.
What is CNN Business Fear &amp; Greed Index?
The Fear &amp; Greed Index is a measure of the current market sentiment. It is based on the premise that higher fear exerts pressure on stock prices, while higher greed has the opposite effect. The index is calculated based on seven equal-weighted indicators. The index ranges from 0 to 100, where 0 represents maximum fear and 100 signals maximum greediness.
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Photo via Shutterstock.

Dow Surges Over 350 Points, Nasdaq Falls: Investor Sentiment Improves Slightly, But Greed Index Remains In 'Fear' Zone

Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) will release earnings for its fourth quarter, before the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BAC/earnings">opening bell on Thursday, Jan. 16.</a>
Analysts expect the Charlotte, North Carolina-based company to report quarterly earnings at 77 cents per share. That's up from 35 cents per share in the year-ago period. According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>, Bank of America projects quarterly revenue of $25.09 billion, compared to $21.96 billion a year earlier.
On Jan.7, BofA named Matt Reilly as President of New Hampshire.
Bank of America shares fell 2.4% to close at $45.11 on Friday&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; .
Benzinga readers can access the latest analyst ratings on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Readers can sort by stock ticker, company name, analyst firm, rating change or other variables.
Let's have a look at how Benzinga's most-accurate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BAC/analyst-ratings">analysts have rated the company</a> in the recent period.
<ul>
<li>UBS analyst Erika Najarian upgraded the stock from Neutral to Buy and raised the price target from $43 to $53 on Jan. 7, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 63%.</li>
<li>Oppenheimer analyst Chris Kotowski maintained an Outperform rating and cut the price target from $57 to $54 on Jan. 3, 2025. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 86%.</li>
<li>Morgan Stanley analyst Betsy Graseck downgraded the stock from Overweight to Equal-Weight and raised the price target from $48 to $55 on Dec. 9, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 60%.</li>
<li>Piper Sandler analyst Scott Siefers maintained a Neutral rating and increased the price target from $44 to $50 on Dec. 3, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 70%.</li>
<li>Keefe, Bruyette &amp; Woods analyst David Konrad maintained an Outperform rating and raised the price target from $50 to $57 on Dec. 3, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 73%.</li>
</ul>
Considering buying BAC stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="592" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13061622/image-67-1024x592.png" alt="" class="wp-image-730239" style="width:553px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13061622/image-67-1024x592.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13061622/image-67-300x174.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13061622/image-67-768x444.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/13061622/image-67.png 1117w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
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Bank of America Gears Up For Q4 Print; Here Are The Recent Forecast Changes From Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts

Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) will release earnings for its fourth quarter, before the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BAC/earnings">opening bell on Thursday, Jan. 16.</a>
Analysts expect the Charlotte, North Carolina-based company to report quarterly earnings at 77 cents per share. That&#8217;s up from 35 cents per share in the year-ago period. According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>, Bank of America projects quarterly revenue of $25.09 billion, compared to $21.96 billion a year earlier.
On Jan. 7, UBS analyst Erika Najarian upgraded Bank of America from Neutral to Buy and announced a $53 price target.
With the recent buzz around Bank of America, some investors may be eyeing potential gains from the company's dividends too. Bank of America currently offers an annual dividend yield of 2.25%, or a quarterly dividend of 26 cents per share ($1.04 a year).
To figure out how to earn $500 monthly from Bank of America, we start with the yearly target of $6,000 ($500 x 12 months).
Next, we take this amount and divide it by Bank of America's $1.04 dividend: $6,000 / $1.04 = 5,769 shares.
So, an investor would need to own approximately $266,585 worth of Bank of America, or 5,769 shares to generate a monthly dividend income of $500.
Assuming a more conservative goal of $100 monthly ($1,200 annually), we do the same calculation: $1,200 / $1.04 = 1,154 shares, or $53,326 to generate a monthly dividend income of $100.
Note that dividend yield can change on a rolling basis, as the dividend payment and the stock price both fluctuate over time.
The dividend yield is calculated by dividing the annual dividend payment by the current stock price. As the stock price changes, the dividend yield will also change.
For example, if a stock pays an annual dividend of $2 and its current price is $50, its dividend yield would be 4%. However, if the stock price increases to $60, the dividend yield would decrease to 3.33% ($2/$60).
Conversely, if the stock price decreases to $40, the dividend yield would increase to 5% ($2/$40).
Further, the dividend payment itself can also change over time, which can also impact the dividend yield. If a company increases its dividend payment, the dividend yield will increase even if the stock price remains the same. Similarly, if a company decreases its dividend payment, the dividend yield will decrease.
BAC Price Action: Shares of Bank of America gained by 0.3% to close at $46.21 on Wednesday.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
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Read More: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42900074/how-to-earn-500-a-month-from-synovus-financial-stock-ahead-of-q4-earnings">How To Earn $500 A Month From Synovus Financial Stock Ahead Of Q4 Earnings</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Long Ideas

How To Earn $500 A Month From Bank of America Stock Ahead Of Q4 Earnings

Wall Street is gearing up for its most generous bonus season since the COVID-19 pandemic, with top traders and investment bankers poised to see double-digit increases as banks <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets">reap robust trading revenues.</a>
According to a Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-09/wall-street-bonuses-to-jump-by-double-digits-at-biggest-banks?srnd=homepage-canada&amp;sref=TBDibEcD">report</a> shared Thursday, major investment banks like Bank of America Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>), JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>), and Morgan Stanley (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MS#NYSE">MS</a>) are planning to raise year-end bonuses by over 10% for many of their trading desks.
At JPMorgan, bonuses for investment bankers are expected to climb as much as 15%, while Goldman Sachs Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) may outpace its peers with even larger increases on select trading teams, according to people familiar with the matter.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">What's Driving The Bonus Boom?</h1>
This year's hikes mark a sharp reversal from the restrained payouts seen over the past two years when inflation outpaced modest bonus adjustments.
Banks have capitalized on surging trading activity and deal flow in 2024, positioning the sector for one of its best years in history.
Data from New York-based pay consultancy Johnson Associates, cited by the <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/4efe2abb-a55a-4c56-a5b4-90b95e06b344">Financial Times</a> in November, forecasts a 2024 pay jump across most banking sectors. 
Increases could reach up to 35% in areas such as trading and investment banking, though real estate and retail banking are set to lag.
In 2024, every major asset class — with the notable exception of bonds — has delivered positive returns.
Gold, as tracked by the SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>) topped the ranking surging by 26.7%, followed by stocks — represented by the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) — which rallied 23%.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">A Decade of Record Bonuses</h1>
Wall Street has seen bonus payouts soar over the past decade. 
The average annual bonus hit $240,400 in 2021, more than doubling from $111,400 in 2011, according to APNews. 
This year, strong trading revenues are likely to provide the financial muscle for another sweet round of raises.
Read Next: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42901087/bidens-final-chip-curbs-set-to-shake-ai-markets-globally-10-etfs-to-watch-with-high-stakes-on-nvidia-amd">Biden&#8217;s Final Chip Curbs Set To Shake AI Markets: 10 ETFs With High Stakes In Nvidia, AMD</a>

Photo: Shutterstock

Education

Wall Street's Bonus Frenzy: Top Investment Bankers Eye Double-Digit Pay Boosts As Markets Flourish

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in BAC usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 30 extraordinary options activities for Bank of America. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 46% leaning bullish and 46% bearish. Among these notable options, 19 are puts, totaling $1,590,533, and 11 are calls, amounting to $575,429.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $37.0 and $55.0 for Bank of America, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Bank of America stands at 9260.06, with a total volume reaching 45,931.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Bank of America, situated within the strike price corridor from $37.0 to $55.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Bank of America 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736360138_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>BAC</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$1.29</td>
<td>$1.28</td>
<td>$1.28</td>
<td>$44.00</td>
<td>$461.4K</td>
<td>4.1K</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BAC</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$9.85</td>
<td>$9.75</td>
<td>$9.75</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$260.3K</td>
<td>528</td>
<td>57</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BAC</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$0.45</td>
<td>$0.44</td>
<td>$0.45</td>
<td>$42.00</td>
<td>$225.0K</td>
<td>5.9K</td>
<td>5.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BAC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$1.07</td>
<td>$1.06</td>
<td>$1.07</td>
<td>$46.00</td>
<td>$107.0K</td>
<td>13.2K</td>
<td>2.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BAC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>08/15/25</td>
<td>$2.92</td>
<td>$2.9</td>
<td>$2.9</td>
<td>$48.00</td>
<td>$78.0K</td>
<td>54</td>
<td>300</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Bank of America</h3>
Bank of America is one of the largest financial institutions in the United States, with more than $3.0 trillion in assets. It is organized into four major segments: consumer banking, global wealth and investment management, global banking, and global markets. Bank of America's consumer-facing lines of business include its network of branches and deposit-gathering operations, retail lending products, credit and debit cards, and small-business services. The company's Merrill Lynch operations provide brokerage and wealth-management services, as does its private bank. Wholesale lines of business include investment banking, corporate and commercial real estate lending, and capital markets operations. Bank of America has operations in several countries but is primarily US-focused.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Bank of America, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Bank of America's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 20,733,457, the BAC's price is down by -0.18%, now at $45.99. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 8 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Bank of America</h3>
4 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $54.25.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from UBS upgraded its action to Buy with a price target of $53. 
&#x2A; In a cautious move, an analyst from Truist Securities downgraded its rating to Buy, setting a price target of $52. 
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Barclays continues to hold a Overweight rating for Bank of America, targeting a price of $58. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Oppenheimer keeps a Outperform rating on Bank of America with a target price of $54. 
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Bank of America, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

A Closer Look at Bank of America's Options Market Dynamics

Analysts at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/truist-securities">Truist Securities</a> initiated coverage on 24 large-cap, regional, and trust banks, as well as credit card companies. They anticipate strong earnings growth over the next two years, projecting an annual increase of 12-15% fueled by factors like improving loan growth, a steeper yield curve, and ample capital for expansion.
What Happened: Forecasting a favorable environment for banks in 2025 and 2026, the analysts at Truist foresee a less stringent regulatory environment, with more clarity and flexibility for banks regarding mergers and acquisitions, and the deployment of excess capital.
The note highlighted that the banking stocks were de-rated during the first two years of Trump 1.0 because the yield curve was flattened and late-cycle macro concerns surfaced, even as the administration enacted bank-friendly tax reform and regulatory tailoring. However, according to the brokerage, a little Fed easing and a steeper curve are necessary for the stocks to be re-rated and two rate cuts are expected in 2025, as hinted by Fed during their December meeting. 
According to Truist, while bank valuations have increased, they remain relatively attractive compared to historical levels. They currently trade at a price-to-book value (P/TBV) below their post-financial crisis average, and at a significant discount to the broader market. The note adds that given the current market valuations, bank stocks appear undervalued relative to the S&amp;P 500.
However, despite Truist beliefs that the sector offers attractive opportunities, careful stock selection is crucial according to them. &#8220;While we're not at &#8216;close your eyes and buy ‘em levels,&#8217; we still see attractive opportunities across the sector and view stock selection as increasingly important,&#8221; the note said.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42836744/baby-its-cold-outside-these-5-winter-ready-stocks-have-what-it-takes-to-make-you-feel-warm-and-cozy">Baby, It&#8217;s Cold Outside: These 5 Winter-Ready Stocks Have What It Takes To Make You Feel Warm And Cozy</a>
Why It Matters: Truist&#8217;s coverage on 24 financial stocks is spread across three subgroups namely, large-cap, regional, and trust banks, which is initiated with a positive outlook.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Large-Cap Banks</h3>
The research note examines long-term investment potential of large U.S. banks as these institutions possess significant advantages, including, &#8220;embedded offense&#8221; with the presence of strong existing businesses and customer relationships.
It also anticipates cyclical tailwinds and capital leverage for such banks given a favorable economic environment and the ability to effectively utilize capital for growth.
These factors position large U.S. banks to achieve organic growth by the expansion of core businesses, double-digit earnings growth and an attractive returns on equity.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Large Cap Banks</td>
<td>Rating</td>
<td>Price Target</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$52</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Citigroup (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$85</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wells Fargo (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$82</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$260</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PNC Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PNC#NYSE">PNC</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$215</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>US Bancorp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USB#NYSE">USB</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$54</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Regional Banks And Cards</h3>
Truist also initiated coverage on 14 regional financial companies outlining three key strategies for regional banks to remain competitive.
<ul>
<li>Differentiated Growth: Focus on unique and sustainable growth opportunities.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Disciplined Capital Allocation: Efficiently deploy capital to support growth and enhance shareholder value.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Navigating the Evolving Landscape: Adapt to changing market conditions, including interest rates, yield curve shifts, loan and deposit growth, and commercial real estate market dynamics.</li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Regional Banks</td>
<td>Rating</td>
<td>Price Target</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fifth Third Bancorp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FITB#NASDAQ">FITB</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Huntington Bancshares (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HBAN#NASDAQ">HBAN</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>M&amp;T Bank (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MTB#NYSE">MTB</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$233</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Wintrust Financial (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WTFC#NASDAQ">WTFC</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$151</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Citizens Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CFG#NYSE">CFG</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$49</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Comerica Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMA#NYSE">CMA</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$65</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First Citizens BancShares (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FCNCA#NASDAQ">FCNCA</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$2,303</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>KeyCorp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KEY#NYSE">KEY</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Regions Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RF#NYSE">RF</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$25</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cards</td>
<td>Rating</td>
<td>Price Target</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ally Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALLY#NYSE">ALLY</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$42</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>American Express (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$350</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Capital One Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COF#NYSE">COF</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$229</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Discover Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DFS#NYSE">DFS</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$233</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Synchrony Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYF#NYSE">SYF</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$72</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Trust Banks And Capital Markets</h3>
Truist anticipates gradual interest rate decreases, the eventual end of quantitative tightening, and a healthy economy and capital markets providing a competitive landscape to trust banks.
According to the analysts, investors should prioritize stocks with the potential for sustained operating leverage. Which is the ability to increase profitability significantly with relatively small increases in revenue. And stocks with strong capital returns, with high levels of income through dividends and share buybacks.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Trust Banks And Capital Markets</td>
<td>Rating</td>
<td>Price Target</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BK#NYSE">BK</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$91</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Charles Schwab (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCHW#NYSE">SCHW</a>)</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$86</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Northern Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTRS#NASDAQ">NTRS</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$110</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>State Street (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STT#NYSE">STT</a>)</td>
<td>Hold</td>
<td>$106</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Image via Shutterstock
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42813271/as-billionaires-load-up-on-energy-stocks-given-trumps-proposed-policies-this-analyst-highlights-charlie-mungers-1962-oil-investment-which-can-outperform-all-the-rest">As Warren Buffett And Other Billionaires Load Up On Energy Stocks, This Analyst Highlights Charlie Munger&#8217;s 1962 Oil Investment Which Can &#8216;Outperform All The Rest&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

Analyst Color

Equities

Market Summary

Initiation

ALLY

FCNCA

FITB

HBAN

NTRS

SCHW

WTFC

Yield Curve Normalization, Cheap Valuation, EPS Growth To Boost Banks In 2025: Truist Initiates Coverage On These 14 Regional Names

Ratings for Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) were provided by 16 analysts in the past three months, showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.
The table below provides a concise overview of recent ratings by analysts, offering insights into the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and drawing comparisons with the preceding months for a holistic perspective.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th align="right">Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bullish</th>
<th align="right">Indifferent</th>
<th align="right">Somewhat Bearish</th>
<th align="right">Bearish</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Total Ratings</td>
<td align="right">3</td>
<td align="right">11</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Last 30D</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2M Ago</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">2</td>
<td align="right">1</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3M Ago</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The 12-month price targets assessed by analysts reveal further insights, featuring an average target of $52.19, a high estimate of $58.00, and a low estimate of $44.00. This upward trend is apparent, with the current average reflecting a 6.51% increase from the previous average price target of $49.00.
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736283611_0.png" alt="price target chart" />
<h2>Breaking Down Analyst Ratings: A Detailed Examination</h2>
The standing of Bank of America among financial experts becomes clear with a thorough analysis of recent analyst actions. The summary below outlines key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Erika Najarian</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$53.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>John McDonald</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$52.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Goldberg</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$58.00</td>
<td>$53.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Kotowski</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$54.00</td>
<td>$57.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Betsy Graseck</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Equal-Weight</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$48.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Scott Siefers</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$44.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Konrad</td>
<td>Keefe, Bruyette &amp; Woods</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$57.00</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Whit Mayo</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$56.00</td>
<td>$52.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Keith Horowitz</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$54.00</td>
<td>$46.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Kotowski</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$56.00</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Glenn Thum</td>
<td>Phillip Securities</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Accumulate</td>
<td>$44.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jason Goldberg</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$53.00</td>
<td>$49.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Glenn Schorr</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$44.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>David Konrad</td>
<td>Keefe, Bruyette &amp; Woods</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$48.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Kotowski</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$49.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Betsy Graseck</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$48.00</td>
<td>$47.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Action Taken: Analysts adapt their recommendations to changing market conditions and company performance. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their response to recent developments related to Bank of America. This information provides a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li>Rating: Gaining insights, analysts provide qualitative assessments, ranging from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings reflect expectations for the relative performance of Bank of America compared to the broader market.</li>
<li>Price Targets: Analysts gauge the dynamics of price targets, providing estimates for the future value of Bank of America's stock. This comparison reveals trends in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
Navigating through these analyst evaluations alongside other financial indicators can contribute to a holistic understanding of Bank of America's market standing. Stay informed and make data-driven decisions with our Ratings Table.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BAC/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights">Stay up to date on Bank of America analyst ratings.</a>
<h2>Discovering Bank of America: A Closer Look</h2>
Bank of America is one of the largest financial institutions in the United States, with more than $3.0 trillion in assets. It is organized into four major segments: consumer banking, global wealth and investment management, global banking, and global markets. Bank of America's consumer-facing lines of business include its network of branches and deposit-gathering operations, retail lending products, credit and debit cards, and small-business services. The company's Merrill Lynch operations provide brokerage and wealth-management services, as does its private bank. Wholesale lines of business include investment banking, corporate and commercial real estate lending, and capital markets operations. Bank of America has operations in several countries but is primarily US-focused.
<h3>A Deep Dive into Bank of America's Financials</h3>
Market Capitalization Highlights: Above the industry average, the company's market capitalization signifies a significant scale, indicating strong confidence and market prominence.
Positive Revenue Trend: Examining Bank of America's financials over 3 months reveals a positive narrative. The company achieved a noteworthy revenue growth rate of 0.71% as of 30 September, 2024, showcasing a substantial increase in top-line earnings. As compared to competitors, the company encountered difficulties, with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Financials sector.
Net Margin: Bank of America's net margin is below industry standards, pointing towards difficulties in achieving strong profitability. With a net margin of 25.17%, the company may encounter challenges in effective cost control.
Return on Equity (ROE): Bank of America's ROE is below industry standards, pointing towards difficulties in efficiently utilizing equity capital. With an ROE of 2.37%, the company may encounter challenges in delivering satisfactory returns for shareholders.
Return on Assets (ROA): The company's ROA is below industry benchmarks, signaling potential difficulties in efficiently utilizing assets. With an ROA of 0.19%, the company may need to address challenges in generating satisfactory returns from its assets.
Debt Management: The company maintains a balanced debt approach with a debt-to-equity ratio below industry norms, standing at 1.23.
<h2>How Are Analyst Ratings Determined?</h2>
Experts in banking and financial systems, analysts specialize in reporting for specific stocks or defined sectors. Their comprehensive research involves attending company conference calls and meetings, analyzing financial statements, and engaging with insiders to generate what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts assess and rate each stock once per quarter.
Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.
If you want to keep track of which analysts are outperforming others, you can view updated analyst ratings along withanalyst success scores in <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.
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This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

The Analyst Verdict: Bank of America In The Eyes Of 16 Experts

A stronger lending environment, stable credit and renewed confidence in valuations could set the stage for a multiyear rally on U.S. regional banks, with some analysts predicting up to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/regional-banks">20% upside in 2025.</a>
Three major investment banks — JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co., Bank of America and Goldman Sachs — released fresh outlooks on regional banks Tuesday, issuing rating changes, top stock picks and sector recommendations for 2025.
Overall, analysts at all three firms are optimistic. Goldman Sachs analyst Ryan Nash, for example, highlighted several factors likely to improve sector fundamentals in 2025:
<ul>
<li>Loan Growth Recovery: While still slow, loan growth is expected to accelerate to 6%-7% by the second half of 2025 as corporations resume borrowing.</li>
<li>Net Interest Income Growth: A steeper yield curve and the repricing of fixed-rate assets are anticipated to boost NII. Nash expects margins to expand from the current 3.03% to 3.31% in 2025.</li>
<li>Fee Income Rebound: Treasury management, payments, and capital markets are set to improve, helping banks diversify revenue streams.</li>
<li>Stable Credit Conditions: Credit losses, measured by net charge-offs, are projected to remain flat or decline, while reserves could decrease as economic clarity improves.</li>
</ul>
<ol>
<li></li>
</ol>
According to Nash, the stocks of regional banks are trading at approximately 11.5 times estimated 2025 earnings—near their historical averages but with room for valuation expansion. 
The sector could generate returns on tangible common equity of 14%-15%, compared to 16% pre-2023.
This suggests the group could rise as much as 20% next year, according to Goldman Sachs, assuming the market gains confidence in forward earnings.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Goldman Sachs: Upgrades Zions, Downgrades Comerica</h3>
Goldman Sachs upgraded Zions Bancorp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZION#NASDAQ">ZION</a>) from Neutral to Buy. The firm predicts a significant upside for the stock, with shares potentially reaching $70 in 2025.
Goldman downgraded Comerica Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMA#NYSE">CMA</a>) from Buy to Neutral, citing challenges in deposit management, fee income pressure, and elevated expense growth. Comerica's margins are expected to improve in 2025. But Nash sees limited upside, with shares already trading near their fair value of $70.
Goldman's top picks for 2025 include Truist Financial Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TFC#NYSE">TFC</a>), Regions Financial Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RF#NYSE">RF</a>), KeyCorp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KEY#NYSE">KEY</a>) and Citizens Financial Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CFG#NYSE">CFG</a>).
Analysts remain positive on Fifth Third Bancorp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FITB#NASDAQ">FITB</a>), Huntington Bancshares Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HBAN#NASDAQ">HBAN</a>) and First Citizens BancShares Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FCNCA#NASDAQ">FCNCA</a>).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Case For Valuation Upside</h3>
JPMorgan Chase analysts are similarly bullish, indicating that regional banks are trading at just 1.4x their projected 2025 tangible book value, below the 1.8-2x historical range.
Anthony Elian, a JPMorgan analyst, said regional banks&#8217; valuations appear favorable relative to the broader market.
&#8220;While inflation remains above target, the steeper yield curve coupled with gradual rate cuts should serve as a favorable backdrop for regional banks,&#8221; Elian said. 
He expects the sector to attract more interest from generalist investors in 2025, further supporting valuations.
JPMorgan identified several regional banks with strong upside potential, including First Horizon Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FHN#NYSE">FHN</a>), Synovus Financial Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNV#NYSE">SNV</a>) and Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PNFP#NASDAQ">PNFP</a>). These names are expected to benefit from rebounding loan demand, robust deposit bases, and favorable capital return dynamics.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Improving Regulatory Environment </h3>
Bank of America analyst Ebrahim H. Poonawala also indicated that regional banks are poised to outperform the broader market in 2025, citing stronger earnings growth, discounted valuations, and a more predictable regulatory environment.
While Wells Fargo &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>) remains BofA's top pick, the bank also flagged KeyCorp and Huntington Bancshares Inc. as preferred names within regional banks.
The analyst highlighted a favorable backdrop for small- and mid-cap regional banks, particularly those with exposure to rebounding loan demand and capital return opportunities. 
Among these, BofA sees First Horizon Corp. and Synovus as potentially strong performers.
Bank of America highlights that looser regulation is a positive tailwind for the sector.
&#8220;Headlines tied to regulatory&nbsp;changes&nbsp;(once Trump appointees take charge)&nbsp;could kick-in as a positive catalyst&nbsp;for stocks,&#8221; Poonawala said. 
&#8220;We see Fed Vice Chair Michael Barr&#8216;s decision to step down from his position as vice chair of supervision as the opening act.&nbsp;End to Fed&#8217;s QT&nbsp;program&nbsp;could also&nbsp;serve&nbsp;as a positive for deposit growth/pricing,&#8221; he added. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Market Reactions</h3>
The SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRE#NYSE">KRE</a>) was 0.4% lower on Tuesday, while the Invesco KBW Bank ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KBWB#NASDAQ">KBWB</a>) rose by 0.5%. 
Read Now: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/42822291/2025-industry-shake-up-goldman-highlights-kkr-raymond-james-hamilton-lane">2025 Industry Shake-Up: Goldman Highlights KKR, Raymond James, Hamilton Lane</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Large Cap

Sector ETFs

Upgrades

Downgrades

Reiteration

Economics

Federal Reserve

ETFs

KBWB

PNFP

ZION

Are Regional Banks The Next Big Opportunity? Why Wall Street Analysts Expect Multiyear Rally

UBS analyst Erika Najarian upgrades Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) from Neutral to Buy and announces $53 price target.

UBS Upgrades Bank of America to Buy, Announces $53 Price Target

Truist Securities analyst John McDonald initiates coverage on Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) with a Buy rating and announces Price Target of $52.

Truist Securities Initiates Coverage On Bank of America with Buy Rating, Announces Price Target of $52

Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) shares are moving higher on Monday, along with other U.S. bank stocks, after the Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision Micheal Barr announced will he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42822335">will step down</a>. 
What To Know: Barr&#8217;s resignation from his vice chair position is set to take effect on Feb. 28, however, he will remain on the Federal Reserve Board as a governor, according to <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/06/michael-barr-to-step-down-as-the-feds-head-of-banking-supervision-avoiding-clash-with-trump.html">CNBC</a>. His term as governor runs until 2026.
The announcement comes amid speculation that Barr resigned to avoid potential removal by President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office in late January. 
While Barr did not explicitly mention Trump in his statement, he said, &#8220;The risk of a dispute over the position could be a distraction from our mission. In the current environment, I&#8217;ve determined that I would be more effective in serving the American people from my role as governor.&#8221;
There is further speculation that Trump aims to replace Barr with someone more bank-friendly. The incoming president will be limited to choosing from the current seven Federal Reserve Board members, as the board is at its cap.
Other bank stocks also trading higher following the announcement, include Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) and Morgan Stanley (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MS#NYSE">MS</a>). Goldman stock is trading 1.69% higher at $589.92 and Morgan stock is moving 2.88% higher at $129.57, per data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/small-cap/25/01/42823991/flexshopper-shares-jump-on-holiday-season-success-clocks-45-increase-in-december-new-customer-applications">FlexShopper Shares Jump On Holiday Season Success, Clocks 45% Increase In December New Customer Applications</a>
BAC Price Action: At the time of writing, Bank of America shares are trading 2.05% higher at $45.74, according to data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro.</a>
Image: Photo via Shutterstock

Movers

What's Going On With Bank of America Shares Monday?

Barclays analyst Jason Goldberg maintains Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) with a Overweight and raises the price target from $53 to $58.

Barclays Maintains Overweight on Bank of America, Raises Price Target to $58

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>NU</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$44.1K</td>
<td>10.8K</td>
<td>9.7K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HOOD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/10/25</td>
<td>$42.00</td>
<td>$31.0K</td>
<td>4.0K</td>
<td>2.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SAN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$55.0K</td>
<td>517</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>V</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/10/25</td>
<td>$312.50</td>
<td>$36.0K</td>
<td>29</td>
<td>488</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BAC</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$37.00</td>
<td>$58.1K</td>
<td>10.4K</td>
<td>325</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>USB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$69.9K</td>
<td>5.7K</td>
<td>297</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>COIN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$287.50</td>
<td>$31.0K</td>
<td>103</td>
<td>246</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PYPL</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$112.8K</td>
<td>16.4K</td>
<td>204</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$545.00</td>
<td>$45.6K</td>
<td>85</td>
<td>52</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PRU</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$125.00</td>
<td>$40.0K</td>
<td>387</td>
<td>43</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding NU (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NU#NYSE">NU</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 46 day(s) on February 21, 2025. Parties traded 1636 contract(s) at a $10.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 22 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $44.1K, with a price of $27.0 per contract. There were 10823 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 9725 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HOOD (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HOOD#NASDAQ">HOOD</a>), we observe a call option sweep with neutral sentiment. It expires in 4 day(s) on January 10, 2025. Parties traded 204 contract(s) at a $42.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 33 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $31.0K, with a price of $151.0 per contract. There were 4063 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2624 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For SAN (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SAN#NYSE">SAN</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 165 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 1000 contract(s) at a $5.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $55.0K, with a price of $55.0 per contract. There were 517 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2189 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For V (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 4 day(s) on January 10, 2025. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $312.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.0K, with a price of $360.0 per contract. There were 29 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 488 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding BAC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 165 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 59 contract(s) at a $37.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $58.1K, with a price of $985.0 per contract. There were 10417 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 325 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For USB (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USB#NYSE">USB</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 165 day(s) on June 20, 2025. This event was a transfer of 479 contract(s) at a $55.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 38 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $69.9K, with a price of $146.0 per contract. There were 5770 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 297 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding COIN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>), we observe a call option sweep with neutral sentiment. It expires in 11 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 21 contract(s) at a $287.50 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $31.0K, with a price of $1480.0 per contract. There were 103 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 246 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For PYPL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PYPL#NASDAQ">PYPL</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 11 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 75 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 17 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $112.8K, with a price of $1505.0 per contract. There were 16450 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 204 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 101 day(s) on April 17, 2025. Parties traded 40 contract(s) at a $545.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $45.6K, with a price of $1140.0 per contract. There were 85 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 52 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For PRU (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PRU#NYSE">PRU</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 375 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 40 contract(s) at a $125.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $40.0K, with a price of $1000.0 per contract. There were 387 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 43 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

COIN

HOOD

PYPL

10 Financials Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

WIIM

BBAR

BBVA

BSBR

ITUB

Shares of US banks are trading higher after Federal Reserve Board Vice Chair for Supervision Michael Barr announced he will step down, effective Feb. 28.

Oppenheimer analyst Chris Kotowski maintains Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) with a Outperform and lowers the price target from $57 to $54.

Oppenheimer Maintains Outperform on Bank of America, Lowers Price Target to $54

Bank of America Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) and Citigroup Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>) became today the latest banks to end association with the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/clean-energy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">climate alliance</a> for banks.
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) and Wells Fargo &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>) already exited from Net-Zero Banking Alliance, the Financial Times <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/acaeff4c-175c-41a0-806b-e870f1f1f53d" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
The initiative focused on containing global warming by limiting investment in industries contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Citi told the Financial Times it remained committed to its climate goals and planned to channel its efforts toward emerging markets.
BofA told the Financial Times it would collaborate with clients to accomplish climate targets.
Republican lawmakers urged U.S. banks and other large companies to avoid pledges that would prompt them to lend less to the oil and gas industry or other traditional energy producers. That pressure intensified after Donald Trump&#8217;s presidential win.
The Trump administration <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/24/11/42235640/trumps-energy-policies-poised-to-reshape-oil-gas-market-winners-and-losers-revealed" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">plans to increase</a> energy production by three million barrels of oil equivalent per day, impose a potential 25% tariff on Canadian oil and gas imports, and fast-track approvals for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.
Analysts remain divided over the impact of Trump&#8217;s victory on the clean energy sector.
JPMorgan&#8217;s&nbsp;Anthony Elian <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/24/11/41788181/regional-bank-stocks-notch-strongest-day-in-4-years-why-analysts-expect-several-tailwinds-from-t" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expects Trump&#8217;s policies</a> to boost regional banks by encouraging lending, easing regulations and lowering corporate taxes.
Investors anticipate benefits for smaller, U.S.-focused institutions, driving surges in regional bank stocks and broader small-cap markets.
Carl Fleming of McDermott Will &amp; Emery <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41772327/trumps-return-to-white-wont-have-shocking-effect-on-us-clean-energy-growth-say-anal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">predicts a</a> Trump administration could slow clean energy growth by cutting federal budgets and restricting offshore wind leases.
Fleming believes these actions would have a limited impact on the broader renewables market, which relies less on federal funding.
Morgan Stanley <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/42016909/trumps-win-economic-challenges-lead-to-tougher-outlook-for-renewable-energy-stocks-morgan-stanley" rel="noreferrer noopener">downgraded clean tech stocks</a>, including SolarEdge Technologies, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEDG#NASDAQ">SEDG</a>), citing competition, tariff concerns, and uncertainty about the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
BAC, C Price Actions: At publication Thursday, Bank of America stock is up 0.78% at $44.33, Citibank is up 0.28% at $70.60.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/01/42766117/tesla-stock-tumbles-on-q4-deliveries-whats-going-on"> • Tesla Stock Tumbles On Q4 Deliveries: What&#8217;s Going On?</a>
This image was created using artificial intelligence.

Government

Regulations

Global

Media

SEDG

Bank of America, Citigroup Exit Climate Alliance As Trump Policies Shift Energy Priorities

Editor&#8217;s note: This story has been updated with comment from Zelle and Bank of America. 
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau sued three of the nation's largest banks and the operator of Zelle last week, alleging a failure to protect consumers from widespread fraud on the peer-to-peer payment network, resulting in customer losses of more than <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40155365/zelle-controversy-heats-up-jpmorgan-considers-legal-action">$870 million since 2017.&nbsp;</a>
The Details: The CFPB's <a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/enforcement/actions/early-warning-services-llc-bank-of-america-na-jpmorgan-chase-bank-na-wells-fargo-bank-na/">lawsuit</a> alleges that JP Morgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>), Wells Fargo &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>), Bank of America Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>) and Early Warning Services rushed to complete the Zelle payment network in order to compete with Venmo and CashApp and neglected to enact effective fraud safeguards. 
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42669113/waymos-autonomous-vehicles-are-safer-than-human-drivers-report">Waymo&#8217;s Autonomous Vehicles Are Safer Than Human Drivers: Report</a>
"The nation's largest banks felt threatened by competing payment apps, so they rushed to put out Zelle," said CFPB Director Rohit Chopra. "By their failing to put in place proper safeguards, Zelle became a gold mine for fraudsters, while often leaving victims to fend for themselves."
The lawsuit further alleges that the banks "systemically failed" their customers by failing to properly investigate customer complaints or share information on known acts of fraud which allowed bad actors to hop between banks and commit repeated fraudulent transactions.&nbsp;
Zelle told Benzinga in an emailed statement that it sees the CFPB's lawsuit as politically motivated and&nbsp; "legally and factually flawed." Zelle said it "leads the fight against scams and fraud" and that its reimbursement policies exceed those required by law.
"The CFPB's misguided attacks will embolden criminals, cost consumers more in fees, stifle small businesses and make it harder for thousands of community banks and credit unions to compete,&#8221; said&nbsp;Jane Khodos, Zelle spokesperson.
A Bank of America spokesperson told Benzinga that more than 99.5% of Zelle transactions go through without incident and when an issue arises, the bank works directly with the customer to resolve it.
"We strongly disagree with the CFPB's effort to impose huge new costs on the 2,200 banks and credit unions that offer the free Zelle service to clients," Bank of America added.
Benzinga also contacted JPMorgan, Wells Fargo, Bank of America and Early Warning Services for comment on the lawsuit.
JPMorgan told CBS News that the CFPB has a &#8220;political agenda,&#8221;and the agency is &#8220;overreaching its authority by making banks accountable for criminals, even including romance scammers.&#8221;
The CFPB said its lawsuit aims to stop the banks' alleged unlawful practices, secure penalties for the violations and obtain other relief for consumers.&nbsp;
"The banks failed to fix glaring flaws in their systems even as hundreds of thousands of customers filed complaints about fraud," Chopra said in a <a href="https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/prepared-press-call-remarks-of-cfpb-director-rohit-chopra-on-the-zelle-lawsuit-announcement/">statement</a>.
"The banks knew their customers were having their money stolen, but since they weren't bearing the cost of these losses themselves, they dragged their feet on fixing the problems," he added.&nbsp;
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42653466/honda-nissan-plan-to-merge-in-the-face-of-chinese-ev-competition">Honda, Nissan Confirm Merger Plans To Offset Chinese EV Competition: How Mitsubishi Factors In</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock.

Fintech news covering the emerging Financial Technology services sector

Fintech

Legal

Tech

'Zelle Became A Gold Mine For Fraudsters': Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Lawsuit (UPDATED)

Bank Of America Reveals Full Redemption Of Its Series MM Preferred Stock And Related Depositary Shares

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/big-banks?page=5" rel="noreferrer noopener">Major U.S. banks</a>, including JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>), Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>), and Citigroup (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>), filed a lawsuit against the Federal Reserve on Tuesday, challenging the transparency of its annual stress test procedures.
Leading banking and business organizations, including the Bank Policy Institute (BPI), American Bankers Association (ABA), U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Ohio Bankers League, and Ohio Chamber of Commerce, joined the <a target="_blank" href="https://bpi.com/banks-and-business-groups-file-legal-challenge-against-federal-reserve-over-flawed-stress-testing-framework/" rel="noreferrer noopener">lawsuit </a>against the Federal Reserve. These tests, which assess banks&#8217; resilience during economic crises, are a cornerstone of financial risk management. However, the plaintiffs argue that the current system violates federal law by excluding required public input.
The litigation addresses long-standing concerns about the opacity of the Federal Reserve&#8217;s stress testing procedures, which the plaintiffs claim lead to excessive and volatile capital requirements. These charges, they say, hinder banks&#8217; ability to lend, support households and businesses, and contribute to economic growth. While acknowledging the importance of stress testing, the groups emphasize the need for reforms to create a fairer and more predictable regulatory environment.
Greg Baer, CEO of the BPI, stated that the current regime results in inaccurate and excessive capital charges, which reduce lending and stifle economic growth.
Rob Nichols, CEO of the ABA, criticized the stress tests for shielding critical supervisory models from public scrutiny.
Michael Adelman, CEO of the Ohio Bankers League, stressed that the lawsuit is about enforcing compliance with federal laws.
Tom Quaadman of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce highlighted the detrimental effects of the current system on small businesses, which rely on bank lending for growth.
The lawsuit follows the Fed&#8217;s <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/bcreg20241223a.htm">recent </a>announcement to overhaul its stress test regime and seek public input on proposed changes in early 2025, the Wall Street Journal <a href="https://www.wsj.com/finance/regulation/banks-sue-federal-reserve-over-lack-of-transparency-in-stress-testing-0db6a002" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
The lawsuit highlights the economic implications of unexpected capital burdens, stating they could impose &#8220;billions of dollars&#8221; in costs and negatively impact the broader economy.
The banks also noted that a statute of limitations on stress-test rule changes will expire in February, prompting their decision to file the suit now.
The latest test assessed how banks would manage a 40% decline in commercial real estate prices and a 36% drop in house prices.
The Federal Reserve evaluates these results to determine the total capital banks need to absorb potential losses, the Financial Times <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ft.com/content/56def327-dbf7-42f1-8aba-218259ebd4a1" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
Since the 2008 financial crisis, banks have faced increased regulatory scrutiny, including stringent capital requirements.
Executives like Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase and Brian Moynihan of Bank of America have criticized these rules for driving financial activities into less transparent markets.
The Federal Reserve&#8217;s Vice Chair for Supervision, Michael Barr, had proposed raising capital requirements for large banks but delayed those plans following industry opposition.
Six leading <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/06/39506407/6-biggest-us-banks-ramp-up-buybacks-undeterred-by-stress-tests" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. banks, including</a> JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo &amp; Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>), and Citigroup repurchased over $14 billion in shares in the first quarter.
In June, Bank of America analyst Ebrahim H. Poonawala criticized the Federal Reserve&#8217;s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39531404/bank-of-america-analyst-highlights-fed-stress-test-opacity-varying-bank-impacts-gol" rel="noreferrer noopener">stress test process</a>, highlighting its &#8220;inherent opacity.&#8221; These evaluations, which assess banks&#8217; resilience under severe economic scenarios, revealed varying impacts on capital requirements. Poonawala noted that while banks demonstrated adequate buffers, the tests showed higher-than-expected losses.
In June, JPMorgan analyst Vivek Juneja analyzed the Federal Reserve&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39536951/bank-stress-tests-much-bigger-surprise-than-expected-will-delay-future-investment-p" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">annual stress test results</a>, highlighting larger-than-expected increases in stress capital buffers for major banks. He noted that the elevated capital requirements could delay or reduce long-term capital return strategies for these institutions.
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