American Express Tops Peers with 16.6% Annual Returns Under Squeri
AXP•Since early 2018, American Express stock has delivered 16.6% annual returns, outperforming JPMorgan, Visa and the S&P 500 over eight years. CEO Stephen Squeri’s premium-focused strategy, including a platinum card fee increase from $695 to $895 and added $1,500 of annual benefits, doubled new account acquisitions within three weeks.
1. Stock Performance Since 2018
Since Stephen Squeri became CEO in early 2018, American Express stock has generated 16.6% average annual returns, surpassing major peers such as JPMorgan, Visa and the S&P 500 benchmark over the eight-year span.
2. Premium-Focused Strategy
Squeri shifted American Express away from traditional entry-level upgrades by targeting affluent millennials and Gen Z consumers willing to pay premium prices for luxury perks, positioning the company as a trendsetter in high-end card offerings.
3. Platinum Card Refresh Outcomes
In September, the Platinum Card fee rose from $695 to $895 but added $1,500 of annual credits for dining, rideshare and hotels; the relaunch doubled new U.S. account acquisitions in three weeks while maintaining strong retention.
4. Maintaining Growth in Uncertain Economy
With a $200 billion market cap and Warren Buffett among its biggest shareholders, American Express now faces the challenge of sustaining its premium-driven growth and retention rates as consumer spending patterns evolve in an unpredictable economic environment.
