The Financial Post reports in its Thursday, April 24, edition that big U.S. banks are currently navigating a challenging environment with increased confidence in their resilience, thanks to significant capital reserves. A Bloomberg dispatch to the Post reports that over the past three years, capital at 20 of the largest U.S. banks rose by more than $175-billion, bringing Tier 1 common equity to nearly $1.3-trillion (all figures U.S.). Bankers are planning to return more cash to shareholders due to excess funds, with the largest banks buying back at least $26.56-billion in shares in the first quarter. This includes $7.1-billion from JPMorgan and $4.5-billion from Bank of America, where chief financial officer Alastair Borthwick noted potential for higher repurchases. Citigroup, which has lagged peers, is initiating a $20-billion buyback over the next couple of years.