Commercial banks heading in different directions?
The top commercial-oriented banks have not surprised anyone with their earnings. Citigroup beat earnings estimates but missed revenue estimates; the general take was that this was not a strong showing. Citigroup's corporate and investment banking division, which has been strong elsewhere in the industry, lagged expectations. However, consumer banking business, which had been a concern, came in okay. Bank of America fared much better--its MBNA deal is paying off. It also beat earnings estimates. This follows JPMorgan's generally strong reports. The big theme is that consumer operations held up okay, but it's unclear if this will continue. The market is treating everything like pieces of the same clothe.
For more on earnings:
- Here's an article on Citigroup from MarketWatch
- Here's one on Bank of America from AP




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