3 No-Brainer Bank Stocks to Buy Right Now for Less Than $500

Core Viewpoint - Bank stocks are typically seen as stable investments with dividends, but some banks like Ally, Nu Holdings, and SoFi Technologies offer both reliability and growth potential [1] Group 1: Ally - Ally is recognized as a reliable dividend-paying bank stock, endorsed by Warren Buffett, and has a significant role in the American economy as the top prime auto lender [2] - The company has transitioned to an all-digital bank, becoming the largest in the U.S., which enhances its growth potential [3] - Ally boasts $143 billion in consumer retail deposits with a 95$360.9 million to $552.6 million [6] - Average revenue per active customer (ARPAC) increased by 23$10.70, indicating strong cross-selling performance [6] - Loan originations surged by 84% year-over-year in Q4, and the interest-earning portfolio grew by 57% [7] - Despite recent market confidence issues due to Berkshire Hathaway selling shares and concerns over the Brazilian real, the stock remains flat, presenting a buying opportunity [7] Group 3: SoFi Technologies - SoFi is a young, fast-growing all-digital U.S. bank, reporting significant increases in sales and earnings while attracting new members [8] - The company ended 2024 with 10.1 million members, a 34% increase, and 14.7 million products, a 32% increase [9] - The financial services segment, which includes non-lending services, grew by 84% year-over-year in Q4 2024, while the lending segment revenue increased by 18% [10] - SoFi is well-positioned for a strong 2025 as interest rates decline, with management aiming to become a "top 10" U.S. bank, indicating potential for significant long-term growth [11]