BAC vs WFC: Bank of America Corporation vs Wells Fargo & Company Historical Returns & Investment Comparison
This BAC vs WFC comparison analyzes the historical stock performance of Bank of America Corporation and Wells Fargo & Company side-by-side. Using real, adjusted market data, this tool shows how identical investments in both stocks would have performed over time—highlighting differences in returns, volatility, and consistency across market cycles.
Use the interactive calculator below to adjust the investment amount and time period, visualizing how Bank of America Corporation and Wells Fargo & Company have historically performed against each other.
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Performance Summary
$10,000 invested from 1986 to 2025 (40 years)
Head-to-Head Record
Over the 40-year comparison period, Bank of America Corporation outperformed Wells Fargo & Company in 16 years, while Wells Fargo & Company outperformed Bank of America Corporation in 24 years.
BAC - Bank of America Corporation
WFC - Wells Fargo & Company
Overall Winner: WFC with an average annual return of 17.19% (vs 14.07% for BAC)
Understanding BAC vs WFC Performance
When comparing Bank of America Corporation and Wells Fargo & Company, investors should consider multiple factors beyond just total returns. Volatility, consistency of growth, dividend payments, and sector-specific risks all play crucial roles in determining which stock might be better suited for your investment strategy and risk tolerance.
Historical performance data shows how each stock responded to market downturns, economic expansions, and company-specific events. While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, understanding these patterns can help inform investment decisions and portfolio allocation strategies.
Cumulative Growth Comparison
A $10,000 investment in Bank of America Corporation grew to $201,960, compared to $2,088,547 for Wells Fargo & Company over the same period.
Year-by-Year Comparison
| Year | BAC Return | BAC Cumulative | WFC Return | WFC Cumulative | Difference | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1986 (Start) | - | $10,000.00 | - | $10,000.00 | - | Initial Investment |
| 1987 | -1.02% | $9,897.96 | +22.07% | $12,206.77 | -23.09% (WFC) | WFC |
| 1988 | -19.52% | $7,965.69 | +5.45% | $12,872.33 | -24.97% (WFC) | WFC |
| 1989 | +54.29% | $12,289.99 | +29.07% | $16,613.83 | +25.22% (BAC) | BAC |
| 1990 | +74.13% | $21,400.20 | +46.14% | $24,279.20 | +27.99% (BAC) | BAC |
| 1991 | -48.76% | $10,966.20 | -3.94% | $23,322.99 | -44.82% (WFC) | WFC |
| 1992 | +82.10% | $19,969.53 | +85.31% | $43,220.96 | -3.21% (WFC) | WFC |
| 1993 | +31.40% | $26,240.57 | +21.53% | $52,527.35 | +9.87% (BAC) | BAC |
| 1994 | -0.94% | $25,993.36 | +15.98% | $60,921.10 | -16.92% (WFC) | WFC |
| 1995 | -3.19% | $25,164.38 | +0.88% | $61,459.42 | -4.07% (WFC) | WFC |
| 1996 | +57.62% | $39,662.88 | +46.75% | $90,194.28 | +10.86% (BAC) | BAC |
| 1997 | +44.94% | $57,486.19 | +36.14% | $122,786.68 | +8.80% (BAC) | BAC |
| 1998 | +27.77% | $73,447.57 | +83.15% | $224,886.21 | -55.39% (WFC) | WFC |
| 1999 | +1.39% | $74,470.38 | +6.59% | $239,712.03 | -5.20% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2000 | -14.53% | $63,646.72 | +3.39% | $247,847.03 | -17.93% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2001 | -1.04% | $62,983.04 | +45.40% | $360,374.44 | -46.44% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2002 | +40.03% | $88,194.01 | -17.65% | $296,755.17 | +57.68% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2003 | +14.53% | $101,007.99 | +10.35% | $327,481.24 | +4.18% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2004 | +18.27% | $119,460.16 | +24.91% | $409,063.89 | -6.64% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2005 | +23.58% | $147,633.36 | +10.33% | $451,335.44 | +13.25% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2006 | +3.57% | $152,905.24 | +4.89% | $473,396.63 | -1.32% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2007 | +18.32% | $180,913.26 | +15.05% | $544,630.25 | +3.27% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2008 | -18.74% | $147,013.38 | -12.61% | $475,969.70 | -6.13% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2009 | -62.46% | $55,194.70 | +5.52% | $502,244.49 | -67.98% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2010 | +5.61% | $58,288.86 | -7.81% | $462,994.36 | +13.42% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2011 | -14.72% | $49,706.05 | +14.23% | $528,860.45 | -28.95% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2012 | -60.63% | $19,569.25 | -11.23% | $469,489.77 | -49.40% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2013 | +101.14% | $39,362.19 | +23.45% | $579,581.84 | +77.69% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2014 | +29.81% | $51,097.83 | +33.32% | $772,706.38 | -3.51% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2015 | +11.93% | $57,191.38 | +25.16% | $967,085.47 | -13.23% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2016 | -4.83% | $54,429.59 | +2.07% | $987,060.77 | -6.89% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2017 | +36.62% | $74,359.21 | +7.51% | $1,061,145.28 | +29.11% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2018 | +33.10% | $98,968.78 | +11.41% | $1,182,235.36 | +21.68% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2019 | -16.08% | $83,057.66 | -22.37% | $917,809.39 | +6.29% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2020 | +44.32% | $119,865.51 | +19.22% | $1,094,177.48 | +25.10% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2021 | -12.67% | $104,673.40 | -41.59% | $639,067.14 | +28.92% (BAC) | BAC |
| 2022 | +51.00% | $158,061.02 | +63.75% | $1,046,474.35 | -12.75% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2023 | -26.61% | $115,999.85 | -16.70% | $871,743.60 | -9.91% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2024 | +3.61% | $120,182.76 | +21.47% | $1,058,867.72 | -17.86% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2025 | +32.95% | $159,777.16 | +46.15% | $1,547,550.42 | -13.21% (WFC) | WFC |
| 2026 | +26.40% | $201,959.60 | +34.96% | $2,088,547.16 | -8.56% (WFC) | WFC |
Annual returns include dividends and stock splits. Cumulative values show growth of $10,000 invested from the first year. Positive difference means BAC outperformed WFC that year.
Company Profiles
Bank of America Corporation
BAC
Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services.
Key Innovations
- ✓Pioneered statewide branch banking in California.
- ✓Introduced the BankAmericard, which later evolved into Visa, revolutionizing consumer credit.
Business Segments
- Consumer BankingOffers a full range of banking services to consumers and small businesses, including checking and savings accounts, credit cards, and mortgage loans.
- Global Wealth & Investment Management (GWIM)Provides Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, Bank of America Private Bank, and retirement solutions.
- Global BankingProvides lending products, treasury management, and other financial services to corporations, financial institutions, and government entities.
Wells Fargo & Company
WFC
Wells Fargo is a leading financial services company that provides a diversified set of banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance.
Key Innovations
- ✓Stagecoach history
- ✓Mobile banking adoption
Business Segments
- Consumer Banking and LendingRetail banking, home lending, auto, and cards.
- Commercial BankingBanking services for businesses.
- Corporate and Investment BankingCapital markets and advisory.
How This Comparison Works
Our stock comparison tool uses adjusted closing prices to calculate year-by-year returns for both stocks. This ensures an apples-to-apples comparison that accounts for:
- ✓Dividends: All dividend payments are reinvested
- ✓Stock splits: Historical prices are adjusted for all splits
- ✓Head-to-head record: Shows which stock outperformed each year
- ✓Statistical analysis: Average returns, best/worst years, and win rates
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Important Disclaimer
This comparison tool is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Historical returns include dividends and stock splits but do not account for taxes, fees, inflation, or individual circumstances. Stock market investments carry risk, including the potential loss of principal. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The data presented is based on historical market data and may contain inaccuracies or delays.