10 of the Best Bank Stocks to Buy for 2026
As investors prepare for the year ahead, analysts are highlighting several bank stocks poised for growth in 2026. Favorable economic conditions, along with a potentially supportive regulatory environment, could drive robust loan expansion and bolster investment banking revenue through increased mergers and acquisitions activity. While some risks remain—such as inflation concerns, rising consumer debt, and geopolitical uncertainties—the banking sector is set for notable opportunities. Here are 10 bank stocks that stand out as top buys for 2026, according to research from CFRA.
1. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (Ticker: JPM)
JPMorgan Chase, with approximately $4 trillion in assets, is one of the largest global financial institutions. According to CFRA analyst Kenneth Leon, the bank’s performance is closely tied to the health of the U.S. economy, which accounts for about 75% to 80% of its revenue. Positive trends in initial public offerings (IPOs) and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are expected to continue driving growth. JPMorgan’s strong credit quality distinguishes it from other megabanks. The stock carries a “buy” rating, with a price target of $340, compared to its Nov. 10 closing price of $316.89. —
2. Bank of America Corp. (Ticker: BAC)
Bank of America is a powerhouse in the U.S. commercial and investment banking sectors as well as wealth management. Leon notes the resilience of U.S. consumers has fueled strong revenue and operating income, with substantial growth in net interest and noninterest income. The bank’s diversified operations in wealth management, consumer banking, and investment banking provide stability and market leadership. CFRA rates BAC as a “buy” and sets a price target of $58, versus the Nov. 10 closing price of $53.42. —
3. Wells Fargo & Co. (Ticker: WFC)
Wells Fargo remains one of the largest lenders in the U.S. market. Analyst Alexander Yokum expects Wells Fargo’s return on tangible common equity to improve toward its long-term target of 17% to 18% in 2026. The Federal Reserve’s removal of the bank’s punitive asset cap in mid-2025 is viewed as transformational, enhancing investor sentiment and allowing Wells Fargo to pursue growth and gain market share amidst an easing regulatory environment. The bank holds a “buy” rating with a $110 price target, well above its Nov. 10 close of $86.10. —
4. Royal Bank of Canada (Ticker: RY)
Canada’s largest commercial bank, Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), also operates in the U.S. through its City National subsidiary. Yokum praises RBC’s consistent navigation through economic challenges and anticipates its return on equity will exceed 17% as it synergizes recent acquisitions. The bank’s U.S. transaction banking is noted for capital-efficient growth opportunities. CFRA assigns RBC a “buy” rating and $180 price target, with its stock closing at $146.89 on Nov. 10. —
5. Citigroup Inc. (Ticker: C)
Citigroup has successfully repositioned itself through key restructuring efforts and is expected to benefit from institutional market growth. With strong franchises in banking technology, treasury services, and wealth management, Citigroup trimmed operations further by exiting the Mexican consumer banking sector in 2025. Leon points out the bank’s solid balance sheet and financial flexibility, positioning it well for potential economic fluctuations. CFRA’s “buy” rating includes a $110 price target; the stock closed at $101.49 on Nov. 10. —
6. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (Ticker: CM)
Another major Canadian bank, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC), continues expanding its U.S. footprint. Yokum notes the bank has strengthened its risk profile by reducing exposure to volatile commercial real estate loans, instead focusing on residential mortgages. The Capital Markets division is expected to fuel growth in the coming year. CIBC has a “buy” rating from CFRA with a $96 price target; its Nov. 10 closing price was $85.69. —
7. ING Groep NV (Ticker: ING)
Dutch multinational ING combines banking, asset management, and insurance services. Analyst Firdaus Ibrahim highlights ING’s strong digital banking capabilities, robust funding profile, and disciplined cost management as reasons for optimism. The bank aims to reach a 14% return on equity by 2027, supported by revenue diversification and steady fee income growth. CFRA assigns a “buy” rating to ING with a $30 target price, with shares closing at $26.32 on Nov. 10. —
8. Barclays PLC (Ticker: BCS)
As a leading U.K. financial services group, Barclays offers investors steady financial results combined with cost discipline and strong capital returns. Analyst Firdaus Ibrahim regards Barclays as delivering reliable performance and anticipating improved returns on tangible equity. CFRA maintains an optimistic outlook on Barclays, further details on the target price and rating were not provided in the summary.
9. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. (Ticker: PNC)
PNC is a major U.S. financial services corporation with diverse banking operations. While specific details from the CFRA report are limited in this summary, PNC is recognized as one of the best bank stocks with strong upside potential heading into 2026. —
10. NatWest Group PLC (Ticker: NWG)
NatWest Group, one of the U.K.’s prominent banks, also features among the top bank stocks to consider for 2026. The bank is viewed favorably for its strategic positioning and expected growth opportunities, although detailed insights were not included in the summary.
Outlook for Bank Stocks in 2026
With anticipated economic growth, a regulatory environment conducive to expansion, and a potential rebound in investment banking activity, bank stocks present compelling long-term investment opportunities. Nonetheless, investors should remain mindful of potential headwinds such as fluctuating tariff policies, inflationary pressures, and the risk of a U.S. recession that could impact credit quality.
Selecting the right bank stocks will be critical as the sector navigates these uncertainties. The 10 banks highlighted above, based on CFRA’s research, offer diversified exposure and strong management teams poised to capitalize on the opportunities 2026 offers.
This article is based on analysis by CFRA and is intended for informational purposes only. Investors should conduct their own research or consult with a financial advisor before making investment decisions.