After a tumultuous, rollercoaster week in which the U.S. government took unprecedented steps to prop up a flailing financial system and rumors of M&A deals involving banks and brokerages were running rampant, Barron's tries to put it all into perspective with a comprehensive look at financial stocks. As Andrew Bary of Barron's points out, "Not all financial stocks are created equal. Here's what to buy - and avoid." Barron's found eight names to buy, and five to avoid.

Whether you're looking for insights into the big Wall Street "bank holding companies" like Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs, regional banks like PNC Financial and US Bancorp, or boutique investment banks like Greenhill and Lazard, the Barron's article surveys the data and provides a quick summary on what names appear to be over- and under-priced. What do you think? Are there any financial names out there worth cherry-picking?

NOTE: Please keep in mind that TradeKing does not specifically endorse any of the securities or trading strategies mentioned. Depending on your risk-reward profile, this trade may or may not be suitable for your portfolio. The stocks mentioned are for educational purposes only.

[image: Barron's cover, week of September 22]