NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - Mar 1, 2012) - Global Banking stocks have performed admirably of late as firms continue to make adjustments to create value for their shareholders and meet new regulatory challenges. The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF) is up more than 20 percent over the last three months - showing renewed investor optimism in the sector. Five Star Equities examines investing opportunities in the Money Center Banking Industry and provides equity research on Citigroup, Inc. (NYSE: [ C ]) and The Toronto Dominion Bank (NYSE: [ TD ]) (TSX: [ TD ]). Access to the full company reports can be found at:

[ www.fivestarequities.com/C ]

[ www.fivestarequities.com/TD ]

A recent report from Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (Deloitte) titled "Global Banking Outlook: Growth Solutions in a Changing World" argues that growth opportunities for big banks are "plentiful" as expansion into new markets, technology and personalization to enhance customer relationships are driving the industry. Deloitte says banks are moving away from traditional outsourcing toward captive operations or a mix of captive and outsourced functions. While Deloitte believes China will be a "critical market," the professional services firm argues that the country presents geopolitical risks and structural market challenges.

Deloitte says that acquisitions are the most probable way for banks to gain entry into more attractive markets.

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the Money Center Banking Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at [ www.fivestarequities.com ] and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Financial regulation continues to be one of the most debated topics worldwide. Giles Williams, head of KPMG's Financial Services Regulatory Center of Excellence, says that "2012 is the year of action and a long and difficult road of implementation lies ahead. We are witnessing the next wave of regulatory reform and rapid implementation that will be required from senior management at banks."

By the end of 2012, U.S. banks are expected to have a better understanding of how many aspects of the Dodd-Frank Act will be implemented and the true impact on their business model and profitability, KPMG's 2012 Banking Outlook finds. In Europe, banks face significant increases in costs to meet regulatory reforms while earnings are simultaneously being hit hard.

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