Charles Schwab's Q4 Earnings Surge 49%, Exceeding Forecasts

Charles Schwab Corporation reported strong fourth-quarter results, with revenues rising 20% year-over-year to $5.33 billion, surpassing expectations. The company's adjusted earnings per share increased 49% to $1.01, beating the consensus estimate. Key growth drivers included a 19% rise in total client assets to $10.10 trillion, a 22% increase in asset management fees, and an 11% uptick in trading activity post-election. Despite a decline in bank deposits by 11% year-over-year, Schwab's core net new assets reached $114.8 billion, reflecting investor confidence in its growth trajectory. The successful Ameritrade integration and an improved interest rate environment contributed to the stock's significant rise. Analysts view Schwab's performance positively, noting controlled expenses and solid capital rebuilding efforts with expectations for continued momentum into 2025.