In 2024, American banks faced disappointing outcomes in the Federal Reserve stress tests, showing potential losses higher than the previous year. Despite meeting minimum capital requirements, the banks' resilience in a severe crisis was questioned. Analysts, like Richard Ramsden of Goldman Sachs, highlighted the decline in pre-provision net revenue and increased credit losses in sectors like C&I and credit cards. Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Morgan Stanley, and U.S. Bancorp saw significant increases in Stress Test Capital Buffers, with Wells Fargo experiencing a surprising 90 basis point rise. JPMorgan Chase also identified inconsistencies in the Fed's stress test results, particularly in the projections for Other Comprehensive Income. The lack of transparency and volatility in these results raise concerns about the permanency of the increased capital requirements for large banks. The market awaits further details from banks on their capital return plans.