Bank of America, Wells Fargo report profit surge as trading activity powers results

Core Insights - Both Bank of America and Wells Fargo reported increased profits for the fourth quarter and full year, marking their highest full-year net income in four years [1][2]. Financial Performance - Bank of America's net income for the fourth quarter was $7.6 billion, a 12% increase from the previous year, exceeding forecasts of $7.4 billion [1]. - Wells Fargo's net income rose 6% to $5.4 billion, aligning with forecasts [1]. - Earnings per share for Bank of America was $0.98, surpassing expectations, while Wells Fargo's earnings per share was $1.62, falling short of the forecast of $1.67 [2]. Revenue Drivers - Bank of America experienced a 7% increase in firm-wide revenue to $28 billion, driven by higher lending revenues and fees [3]. - Wells Fargo's revenue increased by 4% to $21.3 billion, also attributed to higher lending revenues and fees [3]. - Bank of America's fourth quarter dealmaking revenue rose 1% to $1.67 billion, while trading fees increased by 10% to $4.5 billion, primarily due to equities [3]. - Wells Fargo's investment banking revenue fell 1%, but its markets division reported an 8% increase in trading fees to $1.6 billion [4]. Management Outlook - The CEOs of both banks expressed optimism regarding the U.S. economy and their institutions' future growth [4]. - Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan highlighted a bullish outlook for the U.S. economy in 2026 [4]. - Wells Fargo CEO Charles Scharf noted the company's ability to compete more effectively following the loosening of growth restrictions, allowing for increased resource allocation towards growth [5].