Bank Stocks – A Credit Crisis Survivor

Article Excerpt

There are some signs emerging that suggest the worst of the credit crisis may be over and bank stocks could be looking up. The likely passage of a new housing bill will help ease concerns over the possible bankruptcy of government-sponsored mortgage lenders Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The bill will also help troubled homeowners refinance at fixed rates in order to avoid foreclosure. The bill could cost the government $25 billion, but the improving situation in Iraq should help free up funds. As well, oil has moved down from its recent peak of over $147 barrel, partly due to the prospect of more drilling within the United States. Lower fuel costs will give homeowners more cash for mortgage payments and improve overall consumer confidence. These factors seem to be helping bank stocks, specifically BANK OF AMERICA CORP. $33 (New York symbol BAC; Conservative Growth Portfolio, Finance sector; Shares outstanding: 4.5 billion; Market cap: $148.5 billion; WSSF Rating: Above Average), which reported better-than-forecast…