Barclays Stock Rises on Buybacks and Wealth Management Expansion
Barclays PLC (NYSE: BCS, LSE: BARC) gained 0.7% as investors cheered its aggressive share repurchase program and potential acquisition of UK wealth manager Evelyn Partners. The bank's strategic moves signal confidence in its 2026 outlook.
Over 2.27 million shares were repurchased on December 5 at 439.75p, with 17 million shares retired since late October. This reduction in outstanding shares boosts earnings per share and dividend potential, delivering value to long-term holders.
The Evelyn Partners deal WOULD expand Barclays' wealth management presence in the UK, complementing its strong Q3 income growth despite operational headwinds. While analysts see modest upside, regulatory and credit risks linger.