Here Are My Top 2 Financial Stocks to Buy Now
By Brett Schafer – February 19, 2026
Investors seeking long-term growth often look for companies demonstrating sustained user expansion and increasing market share. In the dynamic consumer finance space, these qualities are especially crucial given the ongoing disruption driven by mobile and technology-enhanced financial tools worldwide.
Two standout names capturing this growth trend are Nu Holdings (NYSE: NU) and SoFi Technologies (NASDAQ: SOFI). Both fintech companies are rapidly expanding their customer base while delivering strong financial performance, making them compelling investment options right now.
Nu Holdings: Leading the Latin American Fintech Boom
Nu Holdings, the parent company of Nu Bank, is experiencing explosive growth in Latin America. As of the end of the third quarter of 2025, Nu Holdings boasts over 106 million active customers, a remarkable increase from just 3 million in 2017. This rapid expansion underscores the company’s successful disruption of legacy banking systems in key markets such as Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico.
Nu’s appeal to customers lies in its user-friendly mobile app, free debit cards, and less predatory lending practices, which have collectively enhanced consumer trust and switched millions over from traditional banks.
Financial results have mirrored this user growth. Over the past five years, Nu Holdings’ revenue soared nearly 2,000%, reaching around $13 billion in the trailing twelve months. Net income also remained strong, hitting $2.5 billion despite ongoing investments in marketing and product innovation to fuel further growth.
Currently, Nu Holdings trades at a premium price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 32.6 — higher than typical banks. However, with the company’s continued growth and improving operating leverage expected in the next few years, this valuation multiple should contract, making shares attractive at present levels.
Market Snapshot: Nu Holdings (NU)
- Current Price: $13.00
- Market Capitalization: $62 billion
- 52-Week Range: $11.71 – $18.98
- Daily Trading Volume: Approximately 691,000 shares
SoFi Technologies: Capitalizing on Scale for Profit Growth
SoFi Technologies has recently seen its stock decline about 39% from its recent highs following its January earnings report. While the stock correction reflects a pullback after years of rapid price appreciation, SoFi’s underlying business fundamentals remain impressive.
The company reported a 37% year-over-year increase in adjusted revenue, reaching $1 billion last quarter. Pre-tax income more than doubled to $526 million in 2025 compared to 2024, signaling robust profit leverage as the company scales.
Customer growth continues unabated, with the membership base climbing by 1 million in a single quarter to 13.6 million users by the end of Q4 2025. This expanding platform ecosystem should propel further revenue and earnings gains in coming years.
Like Nu Holdings, SoFi trades at a premium P/E ratio of approximately 52. Yet, as revenue grows and operating leverage improves, its valuation should moderate, presenting a buying opportunity for investors focused on long-term growth.
Conclusion: Invest for the Long Haul
Both Nu Holdings and SoFi Technologies exemplify the accelerating shift toward digital financial services. Their ability to rapidly attract customers and convert that growth into improving financial results makes these two fintechs attractive additions to a growth-oriented portfolio.
Investors willing to buy and hold these stocks over the next decade may be well positioned to benefit from substantial portfolio gains as both companies continue to capitalize on their sizeable market opportunities and technological advantages.
About the Author:
Brett Schafer is a contributing Motley Fool stock market analyst covering consumer goods, financials, technology, and industrials. A self-taught investor and podcast host, Brett holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with minors in finance and mathematics from Washington State University.
The Motley Fool recommends Nu Holdings but holds no position in SoFi Technologies at the time of publication. Always conduct your own research or consult a financial advisor before investing.