First Citizens BancShares Upgraded to Strong-Buy Rating

TD Cowen cites positive outlook for the North Carolina-based bank holding company

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:24am

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A highly detailed, cinematic close-up of the gears, levers, and mechanisms of a banking machine, conveying the complex and secure nature of the financial institution's operations.An extreme close-up of the intricate inner workings of a regional bank's financial infrastructure, representing the strength and stability of the institution.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 from TD Cowen underscores the strength of First Citizens BancShares' business model and its ability to navigate the current economic environment. As a major regional bank, the company's performance is seen as an indicator of broader trends in the banking sector.