Europe's banking sector had its best year since 1997 in 2025, and now banks are considering how to deploy their excess capital in 2026, with strategists viewing the sector as a strong diversification opportunity for investors.
U.S. stocks remain near record highs while precious metals like silver and gold hit new records, driven by geopolitical tensions and market optimism, with sectors such as mining and tech benefiting from the rally.
U.S. stock futures remain steady following the Christmas holiday, indicating a pause in market activity and investor sentiment during the holiday period.
The US dollar declined despite stronger-than-expected Q3 GDP growth, as traders remain cautious about potential Fed rate cuts next year amid weakening consumer confidence and geopolitical factors like yen intervention threats, leading to a broader decline in the dollar index and currency fluctuations.
Wall Street financiers are competing intensely to profit from a new deal involving Warner Bros, highlighting the high-stakes nature of entertainment industry transactions.
Invesco plans to continue its outreach efforts regarding QQQ until it receives sufficient investor consent, highlighting ongoing engagement to secure support for its initiatives.
Belgium criticizes the EU's plan to use Russian frozen assets held in Belgium to fund a 140 billion euro reparations loan for Ukraine, citing legal and solidarity concerns, and demands guarantees from other EU countries. The EU is also considering borrowing options to support Ukraine amid these complexities.
Huntington Bancshares is set to acquire Cadence Bank in a $7.4 billion all-stock deal, creating a top-ten U.S. bank with expanded reach across 21 states and a focus on high-growth markets, aiming to enhance earnings and competitiveness.
Harvard University is facing a $113 million deficit despite receiving record-breaking donations this year, as it resists pressure from the Trump administration.
Loosening of capital regulations could potentially benefit Wall Street banks by enabling them to gain billions, raising concerns about increased risk and regulatory oversight.
U.S. stock futures are slightly higher on Friday morning as investors await upcoming consumer sentiment data, indicating cautious optimism in the market.
Jefferies has disclosed a $715 million fund exposure to invoices from First Brands, highlighting significant financial involvement. The article also promotes various Financial Times subscription options for digital access.
Fifth Third Bancorp is acquiring Comerica in a $10.9 billion all-stock deal to create the ninth-largest U.S. bank, expected to finalize in early 2026, with the merger boosting regional banking capabilities and market presence.