10 of the Best Bank Stocks to Buy for 2026: Analysts See Strong Upside Potential
As investors look ahead to 2026, banking stocks are gaining renewed attention amid expectations of solid economic growth and a favorable regulatory environment. According to analysts at CFRA, these conditions could help banks achieve impressive loan growth while potentially benefiting from increased mergers and acquisitions activity, which would boost investment banks’ fee revenue. However, uncertainties such as tariff policies under the Donald Trump administration, inflation concerns, and rising consumer debt and delinquency rates pose credit risks should the U.S. economy slip into a recession.
Given this backdrop, selecting the right bank stocks will be crucial for investors aiming to capitalize on opportunities in the financial sector. Below is a summary of 10 of the best bank stocks to consider purchasing for 2026, based on CFRA’s analysis and upside potential as of November 10, 2025. Top 10 Bank Stocks to Buy for 2026
| Bank | Ticker | Upside Potential (from Nov. 10 close) |
|---|---|---|
| JPMorgan Chase & Co. | JPM | 7% |
| Bank of America Corp. | BAC | 9% |
| Wells Fargo & Co. | WFC | 28% |
| Royal Bank of Canada | RY | 23% |
| Citigroup Inc. | C | 8% |
| Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce | CM | 12% |
| ING Groep NV | ING | 14% |
| Barclays PLC | BCS | 8% |
| PNC Financial Services Group Inc. | PNC | 27% |
| NatWest Group PLC | NWG | 11% |
Key Highlights on Selected Banks
JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM)
JPMorgan Chase stands as one of the world’s largest financial services companies, managing approximately $4 trillion in assets. Analyst Kenneth Leon notes that about 75-80% of the bank’s revenue is tied to U.S. economic activity, making its 2026 performance closely linked to the domestic economy and capital markets. The bank anticipates continued positive momentum in initial public offerings (IPOs) and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities. JPMorgan’s exceptional credit quality distinguishes it among mega banks. CFRA has assigned a “buy” rating with a $340 price target; the stock closed at $316.89 on November 10. Bank of America Corp. (BAC)
Bank of America is a major U.S. commercial and investment bank with robust wealth management services. Leon highlights the bank’s strong financial results, driven by resilient consumer demand, net interest income growth, and diversified revenue streams. Its leadership in wealth management, consumer banking, and investment banking reduces investment risk. CFRA recommends buying BAC with a $58 price target; the stock closed at $53.42. Wells Fargo & Co. (WFC)
Wells Fargo, another prominent U.S. lender focused largely on the domestic market, is projected to improve its return on tangible common equity towards its long-term target of 17-18%. Analyst Alexander Yokum points out that the Federal Reserve’s removal of Wells Fargo’s asset cap in 2025 is a transformative development expected to enhance investor sentiment and enable growth and market share gains. CFRA rates WFC a “buy” with an $110 price target; it was trading at $86.10. Royal Bank of Canada (RY)
Canada’s largest commercial bank, Royal Bank of Canada, owns City National Bank in the U.S. Yokum expects the bank to grow returns on equity beyond 17% while continuing to integrate acquisitions and expand its U.S. footprint. The bank’s capital-light U.S. transaction banking operations offer attractive growth prospects. CFRA issues a “buy” rating with a $180 price target; close price was $146.89. Citigroup Inc. (C)
Citigroup’s management team has effectively executed restructuring, positioning the bank for growth in institutional markets in 2026 and beyond. It boasts market-leading franchises in banking technology, treasury services, and global wealth. The bank’s streamlined operations, including exiting Mexican consumer banking, have strengthened its balance sheet and flexibility. CFRA assigns a “buy” rating and $110 price target; five day closing price was $101.49. Other Banks to Watch
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CM) is noted for its improved risk profile, with a focus on residential mortgages and capital markets growth. ING Groep NV (ING) continues to build momentum with strong digital banking and cost discipline, targeting 14% ROE by 2027. Barclays PLC (BCS) offers a compelling mix of financial performance and capital return. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. (PNC) and NatWest Group PLC (NWG) also display significant upside potential.
Investor Takeaway
Entering 2026, bank stocks offer promising investment opportunities amid a complex economic and geopolitical outlook. Choosing well-managed institutions with strong credit profiles and diversified business lines may help investors navigate risks and benefit from anticipated growth in lending and investment banking activities.
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[Disclaimer: The article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Investors should perform their own due diligence or consult a financial advisor.]
—
Wayne Duggan
Reviewed by John Divine
Published November 11, 2025