Is Barclays stock a buy right now?
Barclays PLC remains one of the United Kingdom’s foremost banking institutions, and as of early May 2025, its London-listed shares are trading at approximately 297.25p. Recent daily volumes exceed 54 million shares, reflecting substantial ongoing interest from both retail and institutional investors. The company’s Q1 2025 results surprised to the upside, with profit before tax reaching £2.7 billion—up 19% year-on-year—driven by robust investment banking performance and solid growth in its domestic UK unit. The management’s ongoing three-year strategic plan is yielding measurable improvements, including efficiency gains and a clear focus on cost controls. Although the CEO has flagged the potential for continued volatility due to global trade issues, the prevailing market sentiment remains constructive, supported by Barclays’ strong capital base and credible shareholder return programme. The bank’s resilience is further underlined by its best-in-class CET1 capital ratio of 13.9% and a forward dividend yield of 2.85%. In the context of the UK financial services sector, Barclays stands out for its diversified exposure and capacity to benefit from rising UK consumer demand. More than 33 national and international banks see upside ahead, setting an average consensus target at 387p—a significant increase from today’s levels and a signal of market confidence. Investors assessing the banking sector may find Barclays presents timely opportunities supported by improving fundamentals.
- Strong profit growth and RoTE of 14% in Q1 2025, exceeding management’s own targets.
- Diversified global revenues: UK retail, US consumer, and investment banking all contribute meaningfully.
- Committed £10 billion shareholder returns via dividends and buybacks through 2026.
- Robust capital position: CET1 ratio at 13.9%, supporting resilience and future lending.
- Consistent technical outperformance, trading above all key moving averages with bullish momentum.
- US consumer banking division shows lower profitability, facing ongoing headwinds from competitive pressure.
- Exposure to global trade policy shifts could temporarily increase market volatility and investor caution.
- What is Barclays?
- How much is Barclays stock?
- Our full analysis on Barclays </b>stock
- How to buy Barclays stock in United Kingdom?
- Our 7 tips for buying Barclays stock
- The latest news about Barclays
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring Barclays' performance for more than three years. Every month, hundreds of thousands of users across the United Kingdom rely on us to interpret market trends and highlight the best investment opportunities. Our analyses are intended for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical charter, we have never been, and will never be, paid by Barclays.
What is Barclays?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United Kingdom | A leading UK-based global financial institution with deep domestic and international reach. |
| 💼 Market | London Stock Exchange (LSE: BARC) | Primary listing on LSE ensures liquidity and access for UK retail investors. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | GB0031348658 | Unique identifier for Barclays’ London-listed ordinary shares. |
| 👤 CEO | C.S. Venkatakrishnan | CEO drives strategic plan focused on UK banking growth and disciplined capital return. |
| 🏢 Market cap | £42.10 billion | Large market cap signals stability and diversified revenue base within the sector. |
| 📈 Revenue | £7.7 billion (Q1 2025) | Double-digit revenue growth reflects robust investment banking and UK mortgage demand. |
| 💹 EBITDA | Data not separately disclosed by Barclays | EBITDA is not specifically reported, typical for UK banks; focus remains on net income. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | ~5.7x (based on annualised Q1 EPS) | Low P/E indicates possible undervaluation, but may reflect market concerns about risks. |
How much is Barclays stock?
The price of Barclays stock is rising this week. As of today, Barclays shares are trading at 297.25p, showing a 0.83% gain over the past 24 hours and up 1.43% for the week. The bank’s market capitalisation stands at £42.10 billion, with a three-month average trading volume of about 36 million shares.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| P/E Ratio | 5.8 |
| Dividend Yield | 2.85% |
| Stock Beta | 1.28 |
Given its solid financial results and steady upward momentum, investors should note the potential for further growth alongside moderate volatility in the UK banking sector.
Compare the best brokers in the UK!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Barclays stock
Having thoroughly reviewed Barclays PLC’s most recent financial results, alongside a detailed assessment of the stock’s performance trajectory over the last three years, our analysis incorporates a rigorous synthesis of quantitative financial metrics, technical signals, market sentiment, and the company’s positioning relative to competitors—leveraging proprietary models and algorithmic scoring. This multifaceted approach yields a comprehensive outlook on Barclays’s prospects. So, why might Barclays stock once again become a strategic entry point into the UK’s dynamic financial services sector in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Barclays (LSE: BARC) has exhibited robust momentum over the past year, culminating in a current share price of 297.25p as of 2 May 2025—representing the upper end of its 52-week trading range (196.44p – 316.00p). The stock has generated an impressive one-year return of +47.89% and is up nearly +190% over the past five years, a testament to remarkable medium-term value creation.
The Q1 2025 results revealed a significant beat across virtually every key performance metric. Profit before tax jumped 19% year-on-year to £2.7 billion, while total income surged 11% to £7.7 billion. The return on tangible equity (RoTE) climbed to 14%, decisively above management’s 2025 target of 11%. In the context of a generally improving UK macroeconomic environment—characterised by resilient consumer activity, stable interest rates, and a competitive lending landscape—Barclays has demonstrated the breadth and resilience of its diversified model. Notably, the bank has raised its income guidance for 2025, signalling further confidence in top-line growth.
The sector backdrop remains constructive. While global trade policy uncertainties linger, UK banks are broadly benefiting from healthy loan growth, rising net interest margins, and increasing capital mobility. With Barclays steadfast in its commitment to returning at least £10 billion to shareholders via dividends and buybacks by 2026, confidence in the group’s forward-looking stance is steadily building.
Technical Analysis
| Moving Average | Level |
|---|---|
| 5-Day MA | 294.47p |
| 20-Day MA | 275.92p |
| 50-Day MA | 289.61p |
| 100-Day MA | 282.27p |
| 200-Day MA | 256.11p |
This dominance above support lines, especially the long-term 200-day moving average, reflects strong institutional accumulation and market conviction. The RSI (14) at 57.49 remains in neutral territory—there is ample room for further upside before overbought conditions inhibit a rally. Likewise, the MACD reading of 2.45 is positive, reinforcing the prevailing upward momentum, while the ADX (19.82) signals a moderate but strengthening trend.
Traders should note robust support levels at 294.88p, 291.77p, and 288.33p, providing well-defined downside protection, while first-layer resistances at 301.43p, 304.87p, and 307.98p serve as immediate upside targets. The 200-day MA at 256.11p marks a durable technical floor—a feature that may anchor the stock during bouts of market volatility, and further affirm investor confidence. The oscillators indicate some approach toward overbought terrain but do not yet signal exhaustion, suggesting the rally could be sustained in the short to medium term.
Fundamental Analysis
From a fundamental stance, Barclays is delivering growth across its income statement and balance sheet. Q1 2025 total income rose 11% year-on-year to £7.7 billion, and EPS climbed a robust 26% to 13p. This earnings progression is deeply anchored in consistent revenue streams across major segments:
- Investment Banking: 16% income increase; fixed income trading up 21%
- UK Banking: RoTE of 17.4%; strong mortgage book expansion
- US Consumer Bank: Admittedly lagging with a 4.5% RoTE, but solid capital reserved to buffer risks
With a pre-tax profit of £2.7 billion, Barclays is outpacing most large-cap UK and European banking peers. The cost-income ratio stands at an efficient 57%. Importantly, the Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital ratio is 13.9%—the upper range of the management target, underpinning both prudence and flexibility for growth or capital distribution.
In terms of valuation, the forward P/E remains moderate relative to both sector averages and historical norms, especially considering forward earnings visibility. The dividend yield of 2.85%—combined with a robust capital return plan—fortifies Barclays’s appeal for both growth and income-focused investors, while management’s £10 billion capital return by 2026 introduces a clear structural tailwind.
Strategically, Barclays continues to deepen its domestic footprint and maintain world-class investment banking operations. Brand strength, market share, and ongoing innovation—combined with resolute management execution—form an integrated competitive edge. Furthermore, progress on cost efficiency adds incremental shareholder value.
Volume and Liquidity
Trading volumes for Barclays remain consistent and deep, reflective of the stock’s inclusion in major UK indexes and pervasive institutional presence. The liquidity profile supports efficient entry and exit, conducive to dynamic valuation and minimising execution risk. The freely traded float is extensive, ensuring price discovery is robust and that liquidity events (such as buybacks) have meaningful, positive impacts without distorting market integrity.
Recent daily turnover aligns with multi-year highs, mirroring renewed investor confidence. This liquidity surge also underpins tighter bid-ask spreads, a crucial benefit for both institutional and retail market participants seeking exposure with minimal friction.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
Multiple catalysts may fuel Barclays’s next bullish leg:
- Strategic Plan Advancements: Five quarters into a three-year restructuring, Barclays is realising efficiency gains (£150m so far on a £500m target), unlocking future margin expansion and preserving capital strength.
- Capital Return Commitment: Unwavering focus on delivering £10bn back to shareholders by 2026 fosters confidence and sets a favourable precedent in the sector.
- Investment Banking Outperformance: Leading UK and global franchises, especially in fixed income, continue to display resilience and growth.
- Retail Banking Momentum: Domestic UK lending remains robust, with mortgages growing above sector average rates.
- ESG Initiatives and Risk Controls: Management’s proactive approach to regulation (ringfencing advocacy) and risk provisions (£91 million set aside for US consumer risks) reflect measured governance and sustainable operational philosophy.
Externally, the possibility of further UK economic stabilisation, favourable regulatory continuity, and potentially higher-for-longer rates would each serve as incremental positives for net interest income and sector sentiment.
Investment Strategies
The share’s technical and fundamental set-up presents several strategic opportunities for varying investor timeframes:
- Short-term entry: Capitalise on the ongoing positive momentum with the stock consolidating above support (294.88p), targeting an initial move toward the 301–308p resistance cluster, especially if further earnings surprises or buyback announcements surface. Current momentum and technical alignment suggest the risk-reward remains attractive for nimble traders.
- Medium-term positioning: With the business set to benefit from the next phase of the strategic plan, structural expansion in UK retail and standout investment banking results, medium-term investors may view any pullbacks to the upper-200p region as favourable accumulation points. The anticipated progress toward the full-year RoTE and income guidance, alongside dividend and buyback flows, supports a constructive thesis through 2025 and into 2026.
- Long-term allocation: For those seeking durable wealth creation, the five-year +189% appreciation underscores solid compounding potential. Add in capital return certainty, sustained double-digit RoTE targets, and structural tailwinds from brand, technology, and balance sheet quality—in aggregate, Barclays could be viewed as a core portfolio banking sector holding for UK and international investors alike.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Barclays?
In summary, Barclays combines strong financial momentum, prudent risk and capital management, and a clearly articulated growth and shareholder return strategy. The stock price, while near recent highs, continues to be supported by outstanding technical structure and trading above all significant moving averages. The business segments are collectively firing—particularly investment banking and UK mortgages—while efficiency initiatives and disciplined governance put Barclays in an enviable sector position.
Looking forward, the company’s raised income guidance, increasing dividend flows, active share buyback programme, and clear commitment to management’s three-year strategic plan suggest that Barclays is approaching a new phase of sustainable value creation. While vigilance around emerging risks (notably global trade uncertainties and US consumer segment pressures) remains prudent, the company’s division performance and capital buffers act as reassuring counterweights.
For investors seeking efficiently risk-managed exposure to a world-class, diversified financial institution with clear upside in both income and growth, Barclays appears to represent an excellent opportunity at the current juncture. The fundamentals justify renewed interest, technical momentum is robust, and positive catalysts are in play. As Barclays advances on multiple fronts, the stock may well be entering a new bullish phase—one that sophisticated market participants will not want to overlook as 2025 unfolds.
Now, with technical and fundamental tailwinds aligning, Barclays stands out as one of the most compelling propositions among UK banks, offering a blend of short-term excitement and attractive long-term value for the discerning investor.
How to buy Barclays stock in United Kingdom?
Buying Barclays shares online has never been more straightforward or secure, thanks to FCA-regulated brokers in the UK. Investors typically have two primary ways to gain exposure: spot (cash) buying, where you own the shares outright, and trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs), which let you trade on price movements without owning the underlying shares. Both options are available through modern investment platforms with robust security standards. If you’re wondering which broker or service to choose, you’ll find a handy comparison table further down this page to help you decide.
Spot Buying
A spot or cash purchase means you buy Barclays shares directly on the stock market, becoming a legal shareholder. This is the traditional method suitable for long-term investors seeking both potential capital gains and dividends. Most UK brokers charge a flat commission per trade, often between £3 and £10, with many now offering low-cost or even free trades.
Important information
Example: If the Barclays share price is 297.25p (£2.97) and you invest £1,000, you could purchase about 335 shares (£1,000 / £2.97 ≈ 336; after including a £5 commission, you’d buy approximately 335 shares).
✔️ Gain scenario: If the share price rises by 10%, your shares would be worth around £1,100.
Result: +£100 gross gain, representing a +10% return on your investment.
Trading via CFD
CFDs (Contracts for Difference) allow you to speculate on Barclays’ share price without owning the physical shares. Instead, you enter a contract with the broker to exchange the difference in price between when you open and close a trade. CFD trading involves two main types of fees: the spread (the difference between buy and sell prices, typically a fraction of a percent) and overnight financing if you keep positions open more than a day.
Important information
Example: With a £1,000 deposit and 5x leverage, you can open a CFD position on Barclays with market exposure of £5,000.
✔️ Gain scenario: If Barclays’ share price goes up by 8%, your position gains 8% × 5 = 40%.
Result: +£400 gain on a £1,000 deposit (excluding fees and overnight interest).
Final Advice
Before investing, it’s essential to compare brokers not only on dealing commissions and spreads but also on account features, regulation, and customer support. Your choice between spot buying and CFDs should reflect your investment goals: spot buying for long-term ownership and dividends; CFDs for short-term trading and leverage. Explore the broker comparison table below to find the platform best suited to your needs and investment style.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is EightCap reliable?
Yes, EightCap is a trusted platform, regulated by the FCA (UK) and the ASIC (Australia). Since 2009, it has ensured the security of funds with segregated accounts and a rigorously regulated trading environment. If you are looking for a reliable broker to get started, EightCap is a safe platform, recognised in the industry.
Why choose EightCap?
EightCap combines performance and flexibility. The platform offers a wide selection of assets and tools like TradingView, perfect for demanding traders. Are you a novice? No problem: its demo accounts and innovative integrations like TradingView make learning intuitive and efficient.
What are the fees at EightCap?
At EightCap, fees depend on the account you choose: Raw accounts display spreads starting from 0 pips, with a commission of $3.5 per lot. Standard accounts, on the other hand, have slightly higher spreads but no commissions. No fees on deposits or withdrawals, for clear and controlled costs.
Who is EightCap for?
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced trader, EightCap is designed to meet your needs. Are you starting out? Take advantage of guides and demo accounts to understand the basics. Are you more advanced? Tools like TradingView and competitive spreads will allow you to go further in your strategies.
Is it easy to withdraw your money from EightCap?
Withdrawing your winnings on EightCap is simple and fast. Requests are processed within 24 hours and you can use flexible options such as bank transfer, cards or electronic wallets. Security and speed are at the heart of the service.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is eToro reliable?
Yes, eToro is a reliable platform, regulated by leading authorities, including the FCA (United Kingdom), ASIC (Australia), and CySEC in Europe. With over 30 million users worldwide, eToro is widely recognised for its security and transparency. According to our analysis, this broker is among the most reliable in the market, and we have not found any complaints regarding the security of funds.
Why choose eToro?
With eToro, you don't need to be an expert to get started. Its intuitive interface and unique tool, the CopyTrader, allow you to copy the best traders to learn while you invest.
You get access to thousands of assets, such as stocks, cryptos, Forex and commodities, all with an active community to exchange ideas: eToro makes investing simple, interactive and educational. It's like the Spotify of investing.
What are the fees at eToro?
eToro is transparent about its fees: no commission on the purchase of shares or ETFs. Spreads vary depending on the asset, but remain very affordable.
Deposit is free, and withdrawal is set at $5. In the event that you remain inactive for 12 months or more, a fee of $10 per month applies.
Finally, the fees charged are also clearly mentioned on its website (we can't say the same for all competitors).
Who is eToro for?
eToro is mainly aimed at beginners and intermediates, thanks to its simplicity and its educational approach. If you want to diversify your portfolio or learn by observing the best traders, this platform is ideal.
Investors looking for a modern and intuitive experience will also find their account here, with a key argument: a real variety of assets (stocks, cryptocurrencies, ETFs).
Is it easy to withdraw your money from eToro?
Yes, withdrawing your winnings from eToro is as easy as investing. With options like PayPal, bank transfer or credit card, eToro processes your requests within 1 to 3 business days.
The platform guarantees transparency of fees, and the procedure is explained step by step, ensuring you have permanent access to your funds. After analysing thousands of customer cases, no such problem has been reported.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Is AvaTrade reliable?
AvaTrade is a trusted broker, regulated by major institutions including the Central Bank of Ireland, ASIC (Australia) and FSA (Japan). Operating since 2006, it offers strong guarantees, including the segregation of client funds and strict adherence to international standards. With over 300,000 active users, it inspires confidence in both beginner and experienced traders.
Why choose AvaTrade?
AvaTrade combines simplicity and expertise. The free tutorials, demo accounts and training help you learn at your own pace. Advanced tools like MT4/MT5 offer endless possibilities once you progress. You don’t need to be an expert: AvaTrade adapts to you.
What are the fees at AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers simple and affordable fees: competitive fixed spreads, no deposit or withdrawal fees, and avoidable inactivity costs with regular use. You can focus on learning and your investments, without any surprises when it comes to paying.
Who is AvaTrade for?
AvaTrade is for everyone: beginners can benefit from detailed educational content and demo accounts, while advanced traders will find tools like automated trading or Vanilla options. If you’re looking for a reliable platform to develop your skills or diversify your assets, AvaTrade is an excellent choice.
Is it easy to withdraw money from AvaTrade?
Yes, AvaTrade offers a fast and secure withdrawal process. Once your account is verified, your requests are processed within 1 to 2 business days. You can use various options such as bank cards, bank transfer or electronic wallets. Everything is designed to give you quick, clear and secure access.
Our 7 tips for buying Barclays stock
| 📊 Step | 📝 Specific tip for Barclays |
|---|---|
| Analyse the market | Review Barclays’ recent financial performance, noting the strong growth in profit before tax and resilient returns in both UK and investment banking segments. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Use a UK-based, FCA-regulated broker that offers low trading fees for LSE-listed stocks, ensuring transparent pricing for buying Barclays shares. |
| Define your investment budget | Allocate an amount that fits your overall portfolio, mindful that while Barclays is in a growth phase, diversification remains key given the cyclical nature of banks. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider a long-term approach to benefit from Barclays’ strategic plan and its commitment to returning £10 billion to shareholders by 2026. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Stay updated on Barclays’ quarterly earnings, management statements, and progress towards strategic goals, as these often trigger major stock movements. |
| Use risk management tools | Set stop-loss orders or establish a maximum loss threshold, given potential volatility from economic slowdowns or sector-specific risks. |
| Sell at the right time | Look to take profits near significant resistance levels or ahead of events that could raise uncertainty, such as major regulatory changes or global trade tensions. |
The latest news about Barclays
Barclays announced Q1 2025 results with profit before tax up 19% and robust UK performance.
The bank reported a profit before tax of £2.7 billion for the first quarter of 2025, surpassing analyst expectations and reflecting a strong 19% year-on-year increase. Total income for the period grew by 11% to £7.7 billion, and earnings per share rose 26% to 13p. Particularly noteworthy for the UK market, Barclays’ UK division delivered a return on tangible equity of 17.4%, supported by resilient mortgage growth and effective cost management. This strong financial showing, announced publicly on April 30, 2025, underscores Barclays’ successful progress in its primary domestic market.
Barclays raised its 2025 income guidance and reaffirmed commitment to UK-focused strategic objectives.
Management increased its full-year income target to above £12.5 billion, reflecting confidence in continued growth—especially in its domestic UK operations. Progress is being made in shifting resources and capital toward the UK retail and corporate banking units as part of a three-year strategic plan. The CEO’s explicit support for retaining the UK’s bank ringfencing rules signals stability and confidence in the local regulatory environment at a time when some peers have called for reform, a stance likely to reassure UK regulators and stakeholders.
Technical indicators remain bullish, with Barclays shares trending above all major moving averages on the LSE.
At 297.25p, the share price stands well above its 5-day, 20-day, and 200-day moving averages, pointing to a strong and sustained bullish trend. The RSI at 57.49 remains neutral, allowing scope for additional upward momentum. The MACD indicator continues to reflect positive momentum, and with support at around 294.88p, the stock appears well-buffered against short-term volatility. These technical readings, combined with recent price gains, reinforce positive sentiment among UK institutional and retail investors.
Barclays’ capital return program offers enhanced shareholder value with a commitment of £10 billion by 2026.
The bank’s dividend yield stands at 2.85%, and Barclays reaffirmed plans to return at least £10 billion to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks over 2024-2026. The CET1 capital ratio remains robust at 13.9%, the upper end of management’s target range, reflecting sound capital management. This clear and substantial capital return policy provides income-focused investors in the UK with increased confidence and tangible potential returns.
UK analysts maintain an optimistic outlook, with price targets well above current levels, despite global uncertainties.
JPMorgan, while lowering its price target from 410p to 400p, still sees significant upside from Barclays’ current share price, reflecting continued analyst confidence in the company’s strategic execution and growth prospects. The strong performance of the investment banking arm, especially in fixed income, together with domestic market resilience, underpins this positive outlook. Management’s continued delivery on stated objectives and economic resilience in the UK are viewed as key drivers for outperformance, supporting constructive sentiment among professional UK investors.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Barclays stock?
Barclays currently pays a dividend, with a forward annual payment of 8.40p per share. The most recent ex-dividend date was February 27, 2025. At the current share price, this results in a yield of approximately 2.85%, which is attractive for income-focused investors. Barclays also has an ongoing capital return plan aiming to return at least £10 billion to shareholders between 2024 and 2026 through dividends and buybacks.
What is the forecast for Barclays stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current price of 297.25p, the projected price for Barclays at the end of 2025 is approximately 386p, at the end of 2026 about 446p, and by the end of 2027 around 594p. These optimistic projections reflect both strong recent momentum and Barclays’ continued growth in key business areas, notably investment banking and UK retail banking, as well as consistent execution of its strategic plan.
Should I sell my Barclays shares?
Holding onto your Barclays shares could be a sound approach, as the company is demonstrating robust strategic execution and financial resilience. The stock’s current valuation appears attractive given the bank’s positive earnings growth, improving return on equity, and continued commitment to returning capital to shareholders. Historical performance and strong sector trends further suggest that Barclays remains well-positioned for mid- to long-term growth, making a hold appropriate in light of these fundamentals.
Are Barclays shares eligible for an ISA, and how are dividends taxed in the UK?
Barclays shares listed on the London Stock Exchange are eligible to be held in an Individual Savings Account (ISA), which allows UK investors to benefit from tax-free growth and income. Dividends received from Barclays within an ISA are not subject to UK income tax, and any capital gains are also tax-free. For shares held outside an ISA, UK investors have to pay tax on dividends above the annual dividend allowance, so using an ISA can be especially advantageous.
What is the latest dividend for Barclays stock?
Barclays currently pays a dividend, with a forward annual payment of 8.40p per share. The most recent ex-dividend date was February 27, 2025. At the current share price, this results in a yield of approximately 2.85%, which is attractive for income-focused investors. Barclays also has an ongoing capital return plan aiming to return at least £10 billion to shareholders between 2024 and 2026 through dividends and buybacks.
What is the forecast for Barclays stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current price of 297.25p, the projected price for Barclays at the end of 2025 is approximately 386p, at the end of 2026 about 446p, and by the end of 2027 around 594p. These optimistic projections reflect both strong recent momentum and Barclays’ continued growth in key business areas, notably investment banking and UK retail banking, as well as consistent execution of its strategic plan.
Should I sell my Barclays shares?
Holding onto your Barclays shares could be a sound approach, as the company is demonstrating robust strategic execution and financial resilience. The stock’s current valuation appears attractive given the bank’s positive earnings growth, improving return on equity, and continued commitment to returning capital to shareholders. Historical performance and strong sector trends further suggest that Barclays remains well-positioned for mid- to long-term growth, making a hold appropriate in light of these fundamentals.
Are Barclays shares eligible for an ISA, and how are dividends taxed in the UK?
Barclays shares listed on the London Stock Exchange are eligible to be held in an Individual Savings Account (ISA), which allows UK investors to benefit from tax-free growth and income. Dividends received from Barclays within an ISA are not subject to UK income tax, and any capital gains are also tax-free. For shares held outside an ISA, UK investors have to pay tax on dividends above the annual dividend allowance, so using an ISA can be especially advantageous.
