Big Bank Earnings on Tap; BlackRock Faces Activist and Regulatory Challenges

Banks and financial firms reporting earnings this week include JPMorgan, Wells Fargo, Citi, BlackRock and State Street.

Bank stocks have traded tight lately ahead of earnings, after a nice run recently. But downside risks remain.

JPMorgan and Citi earnings expected to rise year-over-year, while Wells Fargo's could fall. Revenue growth mixed.

BlackRock faces activist investor challenge to split Chairman & CEO roles at upcoming annual meeting.

Regulators probing BlackRock, State Street and Vanguard over influence on banks and passive roles in investments.