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Bank Stocks

Bank stocks are companies that operate checking and savings deposits and make loans. Referred to as financial intermediaries, banks are the middlemen between account-holding depositors and loan-seeking businesses and individuals. A favorite among buy-and-hold investors like Warren Buffett, banks serve an important function in regulating the money supply of the country and are thus viewed as a relatively future-proof industry.

Recent Bank Stocks Articles

A European Bank Is Your Best Buy for 2012 … Really!

The euro zone debt debacle has everyone bearish on Europe -- and on banks. But "everyone" might be wrong, and that's why you want to own this stock.

Steer Clear of the American Banker Curse!

M&T Bank's CEO earned a prestigious award that's also ill-fated -- investors should consider switching to its regional rival instead.

Netflix Sidesteps the Euro Hangover — Monday’s IP Market Recap

Investors reversed course after Friday's relief rally; NFLX rose on buyout talk.

Banks Burned by Europe — Thursday’s IP Market Recap

As hopes for an EU solution fizzled, U.S. markets floundered/

Jamie Dimon’s Biggest Bet: On Europe

The JPMorgan Chase CEO is making some bold contrarian moves in Europe. Risky for sure, but he's tough to bet against. See what he's up to.

It’s Time to Bail on These 10 Blue-Chip Financial Stocks

It should be no surprise that financial stocks are one of the most volatile sectors in the market today. Here are 10 of the sector's most notable victims.

You Shop, Financials and Retailers Pop — Monday’s IP Market Recap

Bumper Black Friday helps hoist the markets Monday, with some of the biggest gains coming from the likes of ING and Macy's.

Is Citigroup Even Worse than Bank of America?

Investors should be at least as leery of Citi as they are of BofA. The two share multiple similarities -- and reasons to steer clear.

7 Financial Stocks Mauled By the Mortgage Meltdown

It's quite obvious that the mortgage crisis has been hard on banks. Particularly troubled are the mortgage finance companies and “thrifts” such as AF and FNFG.

Cash-Strapped Banks Still Nickel-and-Dime You for Profits

Don't think for a second that Bank of America's backpedaling on debit card fees means banks are backing down. They are just getting more creative.

Want a Rally? Put on Your Pompoms and Start Rooting for Banks

It's easy to hate banks, but if you're hoping for a U.S. rally, you'd better be cheering on the financial sector. Here's why we can't have a lasting recovery without it.

Banks Jump on Italy PM’s Departure — Tuesday’s IP Market Recap

Berlusconi’s departure opens up the possibility of a new government that could make the large-scale changes necessary to shore up the country’s fiscal mess.

2 Quick Options Plays for Europe’s Tangled Web

Fortunately for options players, Europe’s tangled web represents opportunity. Here are two ways to fast returns.

Bank of America Stock Isn’t a Bargain – It’s a Gamble

Investors are asking if it's time to buy Bank of America stock again. Here are five reasons why it isn't.

Bank Stocks May Crash and Burn After Hot October Run

The financial sector led Monday stock market declines. Investors hoping this was just a pause amid the sector's resurgence will be disappointed. Here's why.

Bank of Nova Scotia a Better Northern Neighbor than TD Bank

Bank of Nova Scotia's (BNS) reach into emerging markets, rather than a reliance on a competitive U.S. market, makes it a more attractive play than TD Bank (TD).

Bank of America CEO Takes Hubris to New Level by Chastising Public

Bank of America CEO Moynihan thinks the public is being too hard on poor BofA. See what he (stupidly) said to employees last week.

Safety in Dollars — Regional Bank Stocks Are Flying High

Recent earnings reports show the strength of these smaller institutions -- and the value of not being exposed to toxic mortgages.

What Big-Name Stock Earnings Mean to You

Here's how stock market investors should play the Wells Fargo, Bank of America and IBM earnings.