Comerica Inc. (NYSE: CMA), the Dallas-based financial services company, saw its stock soar nearly 7% in pre-market trading on Thursday, January 23, 2025. The surge came after the bank reported robust fourth-quarter 2024 earnings and provided an optimistic outlook for the year ahead.

For the fourth quarter, Comerica posted earnings of $170 million, or $1.22 per share, driven by strong credit quality, improved net interest income, and better-than-expected deposit trends. The bank's net interest income climbed to $575 million, up from $534 million in the prior quarter, benefiting from maturing swaps, higher customer deposits, and robust deposit pricing strategy.

Comerica's credit metrics remained a highlight, with net charge-offs staying low at 13 basis points, reflecting the bank's disciplined underwriting approach. Additionally, the company's estimated Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio rose to an impressive 11.89%, well above its 10% target, showcasing a conservative stance on capital management.

Looking ahead, Comerica projects full-year 2025 average loans to be flat to up 1%, with growth across most business lines offset by anticipated paydowns in the commercial real estate segment. The bank expects net interest income to increase by 6% to 7% compared to 2024, driven by factors such as BSBY cessation, maturing securities and swaps, and a more efficient funding mix.