2 Financial Stocks You Should Notice and 1 We Overlook

Financial Sector Overview

Financial institutions play a crucial role in driving economic development by efficiently allocating capital and managing risk, while also delivering vital services to both individuals and businesses. However, recent uncertainty surrounding fiscal and monetary policies has dampened optimism in the sector. Over the past six months, financial stocks have declined by 6.5%, a notable contrast to the S&P 500’s 7.2% increase during the same period.

Spotlighting Standout Financial Stocks

Despite challenging conditions, some top-tier companies consistently deliver earnings growth regardless of the economic environment. At StockStory, our goal is to help you identify these resilient performers. Below, we highlight two robust financial stocks we’re enthusiastic about, as well as one that may be facing headwinds.

Financial Stock to Consider Selling

PJT Partners (PJT)

Market Capitalization: $3.69 billion

PJT Partners (NYSE:PJT), established by former Morgan Stanley executive Paul J. Taubman and spun off from Blackstone in 2015, is an investment bank specializing in advisory services, restructuring, and capital raising for corporations, boards, and investment firms.

Reasons for Caution with PJT:

• Over the past five years, PJT’s annual earnings per share have grown by just 7.5%, lagging behind its revenue growth and indicating that additional sales have not translated into higher profitability.

Currently, PJT trades at $151.86 per share, representing a forward P/E ratio of 19.3.

Top Financial Stocks to Buy

Ameriprise Financial (AMP)

Market Capitalization: $44.4 billion

Ameriprise Financial (NYSE:AMP), founded in 1894 and separated from American Express in 2005, offers a range of services including financial planning, wealth and asset management, and insurance solutions to help clients reach their financial objectives.

Why Ameriprise Financial Stands Out:

• Through share buybacks, Ameriprise achieved an impressive 22.8% annual earnings per share growth over the past five years, outpacing its revenue growth.
• Its tangible book value per share soared by 43.5% annually over the last two years, reflecting strengthened capital reserves.
• A remarkable return on equity of 62.4% highlights the company’s ability to generate profitable investments.

With a share price of $486.75 and a forward P/E of 11.2, Ameriprise Financial presents a compelling valuation.

Euronet Worldwide (EEFT)

Market Capitalization: $2.98 billion

Euronet Worldwide (NASDAQ:EEFT) operates an extensive global network, with more than 47,000 ATMs and 821,000 point-of-sale terminals in over 60 countries. The company specializes in electronic payment services, including ATM operations, prepaid product processing, and international money transfers.

Why We Favor Euronet Worldwide:

• Euronet’s unique offerings have driven robust customer demand, resulting in an annual sales growth rate of 11.3% over the past five years—well above industry averages.
• Share repurchase programs have boosted shareholder value, with annual earnings per share climbing 28% over the last five years, outpacing revenue growth.
• Exceptional return on equity demonstrates management’s skill in identifying and executing profitable business opportunities.

Trading at $70.93 per share and a forward P/E of 6.5, Euronet Worldwide may offer an attractive entry point.

Discover Even More Top Picks

While the market has posted significant gains this year, it’s important to note that just four stocks are responsible for half of the S&P 500’s total advance. Such concentration can make investors uneasy. Savvy investors are searching for quality opportunities in less crowded areas—often at much lower prices。Explore our curated list of Top 5 Growth Stocks for this month, featuring high-quality companies that have delivered a remarkable 244% return over the past five years (as of June 30, 2025).

Our 2020 selections included now-household names like Nvidia, which soared 1,326% from June 2020 to June 2025, as well as lesser-known firms such as Exlservice, which achieved a 354% five-year return. Start your search for the next market leader with StockStory today.