Citigroup stock is one of the largest and most diversified financial services companies in the world. Each of its subsidiaries offers myriad bank and other financial services to consumer and commercial clients. The four main part of the company that makes up Citigroup stock are: Consumer Banking, Global Wealth Management, Institutional Clients, and Global Cards. Its credit card business includes cards with MasterCard, Visa, American Express, and Diners Club. Smith Barney makes up most of wealth management portion of Citigroup stock. Many believe that with the breakdown of Citigroup stock price nearly 60% in 2007 and early 2008, that the company will be forced to sell off many parts of its business, most notably Smith Barney. The original Citigroup came about after the merger of Citicorp and Travelers Group in October 1998.
Even with the decrease in Citigroup stock, the company remains valued at over $100 billion. The company employs over 350,000 people globally and has account holders in over 100 countries. Citigroup remains an important stock for many long term investors. The percentage of shares held by institutional investors, however, sat just above 60% in June 2008. Barclays owns the most outstanding shares of Citigroup, some 4% of the stock's outstanding shares. The Citigroup stock dividend, while cut, remains strong within its financial sector, though many believe that further cutting of the dividend is not just possible, but is likely for Citigroup stock.
Citigroup stock competitors are as diverse as the company itself including: Deutsche Bank (NYSE: DB), American Express (NYSE: AXP, Wells Fargo (NYSE:WFC), Bank of America (NYSE: BAC), JP Morgan (NYSE: JPM), and others. Citigroup stock Beta has risen well above 1.25, making it difficult for many investors to stay with the stock. Citigroup stock headquarters is on Park Avenue in New York, NY.