Citigroup beat estimates for fourth-quarter profit, fueled by strength in trading and dealmaking, and announced a $20 billion buyback program as it cut a closely watched return target. Shares of the third-largest U.

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

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.