Earnings results, inflation data should rejuvenate bank stocks: BofA

Investing.com — All five major banks—JPMorgan Chase & Co (NYSE:), Wells Fargo (NYSE:), Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:), Citigroup (NYSE:), and Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:)—delivered stronger-than-expected fourth-quarter 2024 earnings and provided 2025 guidance that points to the potential for upward earnings revisions.

Bank of America analysts highlighted the net interest income (NII) outperformance reported by the banks, which they believe marks a positive signal for the broader banking sector and could renew investor interest in regional banks.

“Capital markets ended the year on a strong note, and we expect relatively constructive messaging on M&A/IPO outlooks during today’s earnings calls,” analysts led by Ebrahim H. Poonawala said in a note.

However, they cautioned that significant changes in capital allocation are unlikely in the near term, as the industry continues to await greater clarity on the regulatory environment.

“Results reaffirm our constructive view of the mega-cap banks given NII upside, well-behaved credit costs and our expectations for an improved regulatory backdrop,” analysts added.

The post-earnings jump in bank stocks, alongside cooler-than-expected December core inflation data, drove sharp gains in US stocks on Wednesday, with the major indexes achieving their largest daily percentage increases in over two months.

JPMorgan shares climbed 1.97% after reporting a record annual profit, supported by a market rebound in the fourth quarter.

Wells Fargo surged 6.69% as its fourth-quarter earnings surpassed expectations, fueled by a surge in dealmaking activity that boosted its investment banking performance.

Goldman Sachs added 6.02%, making it the biggest contributor to the Dow’s gains, with the bank delivering its best quarterly profit since late 2021.

Citigroup and The Bank of New York Mellon jumped 6.49% and 8%, respectively, after reporting a fourth-quarter profit.

As a result, the advanced 3.37%.

Meanwhile, the Labor Department reported that the consumer price index (CPI) rose at the fastest pace in nine months due to higher energy costs. However, a key measure of underlying inflation pressures showed signs of easing.

Investors also found relief in the announcement of a phased agreement to end the 15-month conflict in Gaza.