Citigroup (C) reported fourth-quarter results that exceeded expectations, sending shares higher in pre-market trading Wednesday. Citi's net income for the fourth quarter was $2.86 billion, up from a loss of $1.

Citigroup’s fourth-quarter results just landed. The bank swung to a profit, boosted by stronger revenue in divisions including equity markets and investment banking. Some key numbers: Net income came in at $2.

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 stock is soaring Wednesday after the big bank topped earnings expectations and unveiled a massive stock buyback program. Here's why that's important.