Charles Schwab passes 2026 Fed stress test with CET1 ratio of 26.3%
The Charles Schwab Corporation received the results of the Federal Reserve’s 2026 CCAR, showing a CET1 ratio of 26.3% as of March 31, 2026, well above the 4.5% regulatory minimum plus a 2.5% stress capital buffer. The Tier 1 Leverage Ratio decreased to 8.9% in Q1 2026 from 9.3% at year-end 2025. CFO Mike Verdeschi highlighted the strength of the capital position and diversified business model.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
The Charles Schwab Corporation (CSC) received the results of the Federal Reserve’s 2026 Comprehensive Capital Analysis and Review (CCAR), revealing a capital position that far exceeds regulatory requirements. The review estimated Schwab’s minimum capital ratios under a supervisory severely adverse scenario spanning from December 31, 2025, to March 31, 2028. The Federal Reserve voted earlier this year to maintain current stress capital buffer requirements until 2027, leaving Schwab’s stress capital buffer (SCB) at the 2.5% minimum.
Schwab reported a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 26.3% as of March 31, 2026. This ratio is well above the regulatory minimum of 4.5% combined with the SCB of 2.5%, attributed to the relatively low risk nature of the company's balance sheet assets. The strength of this ratio underscores the firm's financial stability amid varying economic conditions.
The company ended the first quarter of 2026 with a consolidated Tier 1 Leverage Ratio of 8.9%, a decrease from 9.3% at year-end 2025. Despite this decline, the leverage ratio remains robust, reflecting the company's principles-based approach to balance sheet management.
CFO Mike Verdeschi commented on the results, stating that the CCAR outcomes highlight the strength of Schwab’s capital position and diversified business model. He emphasized that the company's approach establishes a foundation of safety and soundness, allowing it to support clients' evolving needs and deliver profitable growth through economic cycles.
Key Capital Metrics
| Metric | Value | Period/Date |
|---|---|---|
| Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) Ratio | 26.3% | March 31, 2026 |
| Tier 1 Leverage Ratio | 8.9% | Q1 2026 |
| Tier 1 Leverage Ratio (Previous) | 9.3% | Year-end 2025 |
| Stress Capital Buffer (SCB) | 2.5% | Until 2027 |
| Regulatory Minimum | 4.5% | Current |
How does Schwab plan to utilize its significant excess capital given the CET1 ratio is more than double the regulatory minimum?
What specific factors contributed to the decline in the Tier 1 Leverage Ratio between year-end 2025 and Q1 2026?
Will Schwab consider increasing share buybacks or dividends now that the 2026 CCAR results are finalized?


























