Citigroup initiated a major transformation plan in 2024 in an effort to unlock value and drive higher returns. Management backed that initiative up by announcing a new $20 billion stock buyback program.

Citigroup said its board of directors authorized a new multiyear $20 billion stock buyback program that will begin in the first quarter of 2025, helping to trigger a surge in the share price. CFO Mark Mason said the planned buyback reflects confidence in the bank’s strategy.

Citigroup shares rose more than 6% on Wednesday after the bank topped Wall Street estimates for fourth-quarter profit on strong results across segments. The New York-based lender reported adjusted earnings of $1.

Citigroup on Wednesday reported stronger-than-expected fourth-quarter profit and revenue, while authorizing a $20 billion share buyback program, sending its shares by more than 2% before the bell. The bank posted a net income of $2.