BNP Paribas reported a 15.7% rise in net income for the fourth quarter, beating analyst estimates. The increase was driven by a 20% climb in investment banking revenue, particularly in fixed income, currencies, and commodities trading. However, the bank lowered its profitability target for 2025 and announced further cost savings. BNP's cost-to-income ratio remains above the European average, and it has been affected by political uncertainty in France. The bank plans to propose a higher dividend and buy back shares.