10 of the Best Bank Stocks to Buy for 2026
By Wayne Duggan | Edited by Jordan Schultz | April 9, 2026
As investors prepare their portfolios for the remainder of 2026, bank stocks are attracting cautious optimism. Recent developments, including the Federal Reserve’s removal of asset caps and positive earnings growth, have set the stage for financial institutions to pursue growth and regain market share. However, concerns linger over potential risks in the private credit market, making stock selection critical for investors looking to capitalize on opportunities in the banking sector.
Below are 10 of the best bank stocks to consider buying in 2026, according to CFRA analysts, highlighting their upside potential and strategic outlooks.
1. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (Ticker: JPM)
With nearly $4 trillion in assets, JPMorgan Chase stands as one of the world’s largest financial services companies. Analyst Kenneth Leon emphasizes that JPMorgan’s future performance will closely correlate with the U.S. economy’s health. He expects continued market share gains and higher fee income from investment banking and asset management. Additionally, supportive policies from the Trump administration are forecasted to stimulate capital market activities. CFRA rates JPMorgan Chase as a "buy" with a price target of $340, a 10.4% upside from its April 8 close of $307.97. —
2. Bank of America Corp. (Ticker: BAC)
Bank of America, a leading U.S. commercial and investment bank, benefits from robust consumer spending that drives its credit card income. Analyst Leon notes that a stable economy supports net interest income growth and solid underwriting and merger activity in investment banking. The bank’s diversified balance sheet presents low credit risks. CFRA assigns a "buy" rating with a $65 price target, projecting a 25.2% increase from the April 8 closing price of $51.88. —
3. HSBC Holdings PLC (Ticker: HSBC)
Operating across more than 60 countries, HSBC is a banking giant with a strong presence in Asia’s transaction banking and wealth management sectors. Analyst Firdaus Ibrahim highlights HSBC’s successful strategic transformation, cost discipline, and capital restoration enabling stock buybacks. The bank aims for at least a 17% return on equity. CFRA backs HSBC with a "buy" rating and a price target of $108, representing a 19.6% increase from the recent close at $90.27. —
4. Wells Fargo & Co. (Ticker: WFC)
Following the Federal Reserve’s June 2025 removal of Wells Fargo’s punitive asset cap, the bank is now positioned to pursue aggressive growth strategies. Analyst Alexander Yokum projects Wells Fargo can significantly improve its return on tangible common equity, aiming for a 17% to 18% medium-term target. CFRA maintains a "buy" on WFC with a $118 price target, up 39.3% from its April 8 close of $84.66. —
5. Royal Bank of Canada (Ticker: RY)
Canada’s largest commercial bank, Royal Bank of Canada, also operates City National Bank in the U.S. Analyst Yokum praises its resilience in challenging markets and strong return-on-equity potential. Merger synergies and credit improvements bolster the bank’s outlook, with a goal of achieving at least 18% return on equity. CFRA rates RY as a "buy" with a $223 price target, a 31.5% upside from the current price of $169.47. —
6. Citigroup Inc. (Ticker: C)
Citigroup has been executing a successful turnaround, including divesting its Mexican consumer bank to streamline operations. Analyst Leon notes the bank’s robust global wealth and corporate treasury franchises unlock growth in institutional markets. Citi aims to become a leading U.S. partner in cross-border institutional banking. CFRA’s "buy" rating comes with a $140 price target, suggesting a potential 13.3% rise from $123.49. —
7. ICICI Bank Ltd. (Ticker: IBN)
One of India’s top financial institutions, ICICI Bank excels in retail and corporate banking. Analyst Siti Salikin notes its strong earnings growth and leading return on equity in recent years compared to Indian peers. While earnings growth may moderate in fiscal 2026 and 2027, the bank’s retail banking strength will maintain profitability. CFRA rates ICICI with a "buy" and a 27.2% upside potential based on April 8 closing prices.
8. Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (Ticker: CM)
CIBC, a prominent Canadian bank, benefits from strong fundamentals and growth prospects. Analysts cite efficient cost management and strategic expansions as positive factors driving its upward potential. CFRA supports CIBC as a "buy," with a 33.7% upside projection.
9. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. (Ticker: PNC)
PNC continues to demonstrate steady growth and resilience in its operations. Analysts commend its diversified financial services and prudent risk management. CFRA places PNC on the buy list, forecasting a 31.3% upside.
10. ING Groep NV (Ticker: ING)
Dutch bank ING Groep NV is recognized for its stable European footprint and digital banking transformation. Analyst outlooks suggest ING’s cost control and revenue growth will drive shareholder value. CFRA assigns a "buy" rating with an expected 23.6% upside.
Outlook for Bank Stocks in 2026
Banking sector investors are advised to maintain a selective approach amid evolving economic conditions. While resilient earnings growth and favorable government policies provide a supportive backdrop, vigilance is warranted due to the potential instability in private credit markets.
For investors interested in capitalizing on growth opportunities within the financial sector, these ten bank stocks stand out as compelling options based on thorough analyst assessments and market trends.
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Disclosure: Stock prices and analyst ratings are as of April 8, 2026. Investors should conduct their own due diligence or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.