‘Stress test’ supports higher dividends

These four lenders, including American Express (see box), have passed the Federal Reserve’s annual “stress test.” It measures how financial firms would cope with a jump in unemployment, falling stock prices and other unfavourable developments. That approval gives them more room to raise their dividends… Read More

Higher rates will give these three a lift

Low interest rates are cutting the income these lenders earn on new loans. At the same time, they’ve had to increase the rates they pay out to attract depositors, which has squeezed their margins.

In response, they’re making acquisitions and cutting costs. These moves should… Read More