From Yahoo Finance: 2025-04-05 18:09:00

The six largest US banks saw a 20% increase in net profits in 2024, marking one of the most successful years for the sector in two decades. Regional banks gained momentum following the 2023 turmoil, with lower valuations creating investment opportunities. In 2024, two-thirds of regional banks reported higher earnings.

Fourth-quarter 2024 saw improvements in net income for US regional banks due to easing NIM pressures and increased fee income. Despite NII growth, full-year pressures persisted. Median NIM rose by 5 basis points to 3.14%, with expectations of slight earnings growth in 2025 from higher NIMs and loan growth.

The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE:PNC) had a strong 2024, expanding its customer base and delivering record revenue. In Q4, revenue grew by 4%, with net interest income up 3%. PNC offers a 3.97% dividend yield, returning $0.9 billion to shareholders last quarter. The bank has grown dividends for 14 consecutive years.

PNC ranks 1st among the best dividend stocks in the regional banking sector. While promising, some deeply undervalued stocks may offer higher returns in a shorter time frame. For more insights on dividend stocks, explore the report on dirt cheap dividend stocks for potential investment opportunities.

Read more: Is The PNC Financial Services Group (PNC) the Best Regional Bank Dividend Stock to Buy?