Piper Sandler Lowers FITB Target, Delays Buyback Restart Outlook

Fifth Third Bancorp (NASDAQ:FITB) is included among the 14 Safest Stocks with Highest Dividends.

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On March 30, Piper Sandler lowered its price recommendation on Fifth Third Bancorp (NASDAQ:FITB) to $54 from $57. It reiterated an Overweight rating on the shares. The firm said it is adjusting its EPS estimates, noting that it is “to push out a touch” its expectation for when Fifth Third will resume share repurchases following Comerica (CMA). It had previously expected buybacks to restart in Q3 2026. Now, it sees that timeline shifting to Q4 2026, pointing to likely merger-related charges in the coming quarters and a continued focus on capital levels.

On March 16, JPMorgan Chase analyst Vivek Juneja resumed coverage of Fifth Third Bancorp with an Overweight rating. The firm set a $50.50 price target on the stock, up from $45, after a period of restriction. The analyst said the bank’s commercial and industrial loan growth has improved in the first two months of the year. He also noted that Fifth Third remains confident in achieving 35% savings from Comerica’s expense base.

Fifth Third Bancorp (NASDAQ:FITB) is a diversified financial services company and serves as the indirect holding company of Fifth Third Bank, National Association. Its Commercial Banking segment provides credit intermediation, cash management, and financial services to large and middle-market businesses, along with government and professional clients.

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