Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

The Stress Tests: Will the Big Banks Come Out Airtight or Full of Holes?

By David Hanson – Mar 20, 2014 at 8:40AM

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

The big banking stress tests are just around the corner. Are the big banks prepared for another crisis? And could dividend increases be on the way for bank investors?

The results of the Fed's stress test are due to be announced today at 4, when investors will get to see just how prepared the big banks are in case of another major economic downturn. In this segment from Thursday's Where the Money Is, Motley Fool banking analyst David Hanson discusses how the stress tests work and the three scenarios that the banks will be tested on, and he also shines some light on the biggest risk for shareholders of a bank that performs poorly in the tests.

Stress tests are also a way for the big banks to prove that they have the ability to pay out higher dividends or initiate a share repurchasing program, without putting shareholders at risk. David discusses whether or not Bank of America (BAC 0.63%) could raise its famously low dividend after this round of tests, and when investors might see that change.

David Hanson has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Bank of America. The Motley Fool owns shares of Bank of America and Citigroup. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Premium Investing Services

Invest better with The Motley Fool. Get stock recommendations, portfolio guidance, and more from The Motley Fool's premium services.