Buyback

• JPMorgan Chase authorized a $5 billion share repurchase program, effective immediately, following a strong first quarter in which net income exceeded $6.2 billion and return on equity reached 15.3%. • CEO Jamie Dimon stated that the buyback reflects management confidence in the bank's capital position and long-term earnings trajectory despite macroeconomic headwinds. • The announcement signals investor-friendly capital allocation policies among major financial institutions, supporting bank stock valuations and demonstrating the sector's resilience amid ongoing rate cut speculation.

• U.S. stocks opened higher on March 17 with Dow up 0.66%, S&P 500 up 0.42%, and Nasdaq up 0.33%. • Qualcomm shares rose 3.2% after approving a $20 billion stock buyback plan and boosting its dividend. • The announcement signals strong confidence in future cash flows amid semiconductor demand.

American Express stock pulled back to levels offering strong upside potential on March 13, 2026, prompting portfolio managers to track for additional purchases. The credit card giant benefits from premium products like the refreshed Platinum card driving earnings growth amid consumer spending resilience. Shares present a favorable entry as broader financials face pressure from rising yields and oil shocks. Analysts maintain a buy rating targeting significant appreciation from current levels around recent lows.