First Citizens BancShares Upgraded to Strong-Buy Rating

Analysts cite the bank's diversified business model and prudent risk management as factors supporting the upgrade.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 4:24pm

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An extreme close-up of the complex, interconnected machinery and mechanisms that power a regional bank's financial operations, representing the institution's resilience and growth potential.The upgrade of First Citizens BancShares reflects the strength and stability of the regional bank's financial infrastructure.Today in Raleigh

First Citizens BancShares (NASDAQ:FCNCA), the bank holding company for First Citizens Bank, was upgraded to a 'strong-buy' rating by analysts at TD Cowen on Monday. The upgrade comes as the company continues to see positive momentum in its commercial and consumer banking operations.

Why it matters

The upgrade from TD Cowen is a vote of confidence in First Citizens BancShares' ability to navigate the current economic environment and capitalize on growth opportunities. As a major regional bank, the company's performance is seen as an indicator of broader trends in the banking sector.

The details

In their research note, TD Cowen analysts cited First Citizens BancShares' diversified business model, strong capital position, and prudent risk management as factors supporting the upgrade. The bank has weathered the pandemic well and is poised to benefit from rising interest rates and an improving economic outlook.

  • The upgrade was issued by TD Cowen on Monday, April 15, 2026.

The players

First Citizens BancShares

The bank holding company for First Citizens Bank, a full-service commercial bank headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina.

TD Cowen

An investment research firm that covers the banking and financial services sectors.

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What they’re saying

“We believe First Citizens BancShares is well-positioned to deliver strong returns for investors given its solid fundamentals and growth potential.”

— TD Cowen Analyst

What’s next

Investors will be closely watching First Citizens BancShares' upcoming quarterly earnings report to see if the company can continue its positive momentum.

The takeaway

The upgrade of First Citizens BancShares to a 'strong-buy' rating by TD Cowen reflects the bank's resilience and growth potential in the current economic climate, underscoring the strength of regional banking institutions that have weathered the pandemic and are poised to benefit from rising interest rates.