The market is reacting to some global economic concerns this morning, dragging nearly all of the financials down -- including Wells Fargo (WFC -0.98%). But having lost just 1.24% in the first hour of trading, the bank is faring much better than its Big Four compatriots, which have each given up 2.3%+ so far in trading. So even though Wells is down, it's certainly not out and has some big ammunition to send it higher.
Chinese take-out
This morning's market kerfuffle revolves around continued concerns about the gloabl economy -- and China is fanning the flame. With higher liquidity requirements pressuring the banking system, participants are not lending to each other, which may spark a liquidity crisis. The People's Bank of China, in response to this rising concern, has stated that banks will have to sort the matter out themselves, which is the crux of investor concern with the potential liquidity freeze.
Since China's economic growth has been one of the biggest economic stories for years, driving demand for imports and development, a further slowdown would do serious damage to the global recovery.
Banks take it on the chin
Of course, financial firms that have big exposures to the Chinese economy are getting hit pretty hard this morning. With expansions in China providing a big chunk of revenue, American International Group (AIG 1.04%) and Citigroup (C -2.63%) are two of the biggest losers. Bank of America (BAC -3.53%) and JPMorgan Chase (JPM -1.14%) both have exposure to the region, though to a much smaller extent, so they are both down over 2.5% as of writing.
Wells Fargo, on the other hand, has little international exposure other than traditional lending, so its investors aren't as concerned with the regional issues so much as the global implications. China's demand for American goods and services may fall if there is further development of a liquidity crisis, leaving the small gains in exports and manufacturing that have helped our economy move forward in its recovery in peril. That could have a ripple effect throughout every segment of the U.S. economy, slowing or stopping the steady improvements we've been seeing.
Fear not, Wells investors
This week may have some good news for Wells investors, however, that could turn the bank's trading odds around. Bank investors should know that this week is a big one for housing data -- something Wells investors should be keen to hear. With the bank controlling over 25% of the mortgage originations in 2012, good news on the housing front is good news for the bank.
And as for the Chinese economy, the current levels of liquidity are fine, and the market reaction is really focused on a "what if." So if you focus on the strength of your investments as businesses and not the headlines, you'll fare better than your compatriots -- just like Wells this morning.
