American Express (AXP) Remains a Key Holding for Mario Gabelli

Core Viewpoint - American Express Company (NYSE:AXP) is considered a strong investment opportunity by billionaire Mario Gabelli, despite recent stock performance challenges [1][5]. Group 1: Investment Holdings - As of Q4 2025, GAMCO Investors holds $156 million in AXP stock, representing a 1.5% weight in their portfolio, with a total of 422,221 shares, reflecting a 6% decrease from Q3 2025 [1]. - Gabelli Funds has maintained its investment in AXP for 33 years, generating realized and unrealized gains of $456 million, with a cumulative total return of 9,991%, equating to an annualized return of 15.0% [2]. Group 2: Recent Performance - In 2026, AXP stock has declined nearly 18% following a 25% return in 2025, attributed partly to concerns over artificial intelligence's potential negative impact on the financial sector [3]. - Analysts, including one from Wells Fargo, view the recent selloff as a buying opportunity, citing attractive valuations and arguing that fears of AI-related job losses are overstated [4]. Group 3: Insider Activity - Recent insider sales include Raymond Joabar, who sold 14,000 shares for approximately $4.8 million, reducing his stake by 62% [4]. - Chief Information Officer Ravikumar Radhakrishnan sold 15,000 shares for about $5.35 million, also reducing his holdings by 62%, while Chief Legal Officer Laureen Seeger sold 12,737 shares for around $4.60 million on the same day [6].