In some good news for the banking sector, credit rating agency Fitch has pegged the global trading and universal banks sector with a stable outlook – but has warned that those firms still undergoing restructurings will face tougher times in carrying out their plans as they struggle for income.

Bank earnings will remain "under pressure" in 2017, Fitch said in its December 13 note. They wrote: "Periods of market volatility, which are probable given the global political climate, could result in higher trading volumes, but we expect cautious investor sentiment will continue to dampen sales and trading activity."