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March 2023 has been a turbulent time for the banking sector, with the collapse and rescue of Silicon Valley Bank in the US, and Credit Suisse. The best bank stocks depend on your portfolio and investment goals — while volatility can work for day traders, long-term investors will want to look to stocks with steadier gains over time.
How to invest in bank stocks
- Choose a platform. If you’re a beginner, our share-dealing table below can help you choose.
- Open your account. You’ll need your ID, bank details and national insurance number.
- Confirm your payment details. You’ll need to fund your account with a bank transfer, debit card or credit card.
- Search the platform for bank stock codes.
- Research the shares you want to buy. The platform should provide the latest information available.
- Buy your shares. It’s that simple.
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Expert insights
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Expert insights
Wide range of accounts
We analysed all popular share dealing platforms in the UK using 35 data points and combined this with our expert insight from using the apps. The platforms we've selected as best for each category offer stand-out features or a unique combination of elements for a specific aspect of investing. If we show a "Promoted for" pick, it's been chosen from among our partners and is based on factors that include special features or offers, and the commission we receive. Keep in mind that our picks may not always be the best for you – it's important to compare for yourself. More details in our full methodology.
All investing should be regarded as longer term. The value of your investments can go up and down, and you may get back less than you invest. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. If you’re not sure which investments are right for you, please seek out a financial adviser. Capital at risk.
15 bank stocks to watch
We rounded up a selection of stocks in or related to the banking sector, weighting the list more heavily towards popular UK and US stocks.
- Barclays (BARC)
- Lloyds (LLOY)
- HSBC (HSBA)
- NatWest (NWG)
- Standard Chartered (STAN)
- Santander (BNC)
- Credit Suisse (CS)
- BNP Paribas (BNP)
- First Republic Bank (FRC)
- Bank of America (BAC)
- Citigroup (C)
- JPMorgan Chase-and-Co (JPM)
- Wells Fargo (WFC)
- Citizens Financial Group (CFG)
- Signature Bank (SBNY)
Compare platforms to buy bank stocks
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All investing should be regarded as longer term. The value of your investments can go up and down, and you may get back less than you invest. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. If you’re not sure which investments are right for you, please seek out a financial adviser. Capital at risk.
Bottom line
While it’s possible to turn a profit investing in bank stocks, keep in mind that — like any investment — bank stocks can be risky. These stocks are subject to fluctuating conditions — both in the market generally and in the banking industry, so carefully vet your picks before you invest. And if you’re new to investing, or if it’s been a while since you’ve taken a critical look at your investing accounts, compare brokers to make sure you’re getting the best features in your trading account.
Finder survey: If a pension or other investment performed well but included companies in the following industries or countries, which would cause you to feel guilty?
| Response | Female | Male |
|---|---|---|
| A Russian company | 45.11% | 37% |
| A company still operating in Russia | 39.82% | 30.94% |
| Weapons manufacturing | 39.82% | 24.56% |
| I wouldn't feel guilty | 18.59% | 26.41% |
| Tobacco | 25.83% | 25.49% |
| Cannabis | 23.29% | 20.04% |
| Meat farming | 17.42% | 9.76% |
| Oil | 12.33% | 12.33% |
| None of the above | 11.84% | 7.19% |
| Banks | 5.97% | 8.84% |
| Vaccine production | 7.05% | 6.89% |
Source: Finder survey by Censuswide of 1995 Brits, April 2022
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