2 Major European Bank Stocks Have Thumped the S&P 500 Index This Year. They Still Trade at Less Than 65 Cents on the Dollar

Market Overview - The S&P 500 index experienced significant volatility, starting the year strong before dropping nearly 20% due to tariff concerns, but has since recovered most losses after a 90-day tariff pause was announced [1][2] Barclays - Barclays shares have risen nearly 23% this year and 54% over the past year, despite European banks facing challenges such as low interest rates and weak GDP growth [3][5] - The bank generated a 14% return on tangible equity (ROTE) in Q1 2025, up from 12.3% a year prior, attributed to strong performance in investment banking and wealth management [5][6] - Management anticipates an 11% ROTE in 2025, with capital levels elevated for potential share repurchases and a current dividend yield of approximately 2.7% [7] Deutsche Bank - Deutsche Bank shares have increased by 56% this year, overcoming economic challenges and regulatory issues related to anti-money-laundering infractions [9][10] - The bank has made financial progress, achieving an 11.9% ROTE in Q1 2025, up from 7.4% in Q1 2024, with a compound annual revenue growth rate of 6.1% since 2021 [11] - Management plans to spend €750 million ($842 million) on share repurchases, contributing to a total distribution of €2.1 billion in the quarter, with expectations to exceed an annual €8 billion distribution target [13]