Summary of Citigroup Conference Call - December 09, 2025 Company Overview - **Company**: Citigroup (NYSE:C) - **Event**: Conference Call - **Date**: December 09, 2025 Key Points Leadership Transition - Mark, the current CFO, is transitioning out after nearly seven years, emphasizing the importance of leaving the finance function in a better condition and ensuring continued momentum for Citigroup's commitments to investors, including a target return of 10%-11% for the next year [12][13][15] - Gonzalo Luchetti, the incoming CFO, has nearly 20 years of experience at Citigroup and aims to focus on continuity, results delivery, and accountability in his new role [17][18] Strategic Changes in U.S. Personal Banking - The retail bank is being moved into wealth management, and the card business will operate as a standalone entity, aimed at leveraging Citigroup's affluent customer base and enhancing synergies [22][23] - Citigroup has upgraded approximately $12 billion of customers into the wealth business, indicating a strong customer footprint [22] Macroeconomic Outlook - The global economy is described as resilient, with expectations of moderate growth slowing into 2026. Anticipated rate cuts may occur, with estimates of two to three cuts next year [25][26] - Client sentiment remains strong, with discussions around AI and its impact on productivity being a hot topic among corporate clients [27][28] Consumer Spending Trends - U.S. consumers are showing resilience, with solid growth in spending observed in travel, dining, and discretionary retail, particularly through online channels [29][30] - Credit quality remains stable, with delinquencies down year-on-year for the first time in several years, indicating effective credit management [30][31] Investment Banking Activity - Investment banking is experiencing momentum, particularly in M&A, with expected revenue growth in the mid-20s percentage year-over-year [34] - Market revenues are projected to decline low to mid-single digits year-over-year due to seasonal factors [33] Financial Projections - For 2025, net interest income (NII) excluding markets is expected to grow by 5.5% year-over-year, with continued growth anticipated into 2026 [36] - The efficiency ratio target for 2026 is set below 60%, with various drivers including revenue growth and cost reductions [39][40] Capital Management - Citigroup aims to reduce its Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio to 12.8% over the next few quarters, balancing capital deployment for growth and shareholder returns [59][60] - A $20 billion buyback program is in place, with $9 billion executed year-to-date [60] Transformation and AI Initiatives - Significant progress has been made in transformation efforts, with two-thirds of initiatives nearing completion, particularly in risk and compliance controls [43][44] - AI initiatives are being implemented to enhance productivity and operational efficiency across various business functions [49][51] Future Priorities - The focus for 2026 includes execution to achieve the 10%-11% return target and further enhancing long-term shareholder value [67][68] Additional Insights - The transition in leadership is seen as a critical moment for Citigroup, with a strong emphasis on maintaining momentum and delivering on commitments to investors [12][15] - The strategic restructuring within U.S. Personal Banking reflects a response to evolving market conditions and customer needs, aiming to capitalize on affluent customer segments [22][23] - The overall sentiment from the leadership indicates confidence in Citigroup's resilience and ability to navigate macroeconomic challenges while pursuing growth opportunities [25][28]