Backed by lower expenses, Wells Fargo WFC delivered a positive earnings surprise of 3.4% in fourth-quarter 2018. These are expected to be partially offset by higher outside processing expenses in line with growing revenues, technology expenditures and typical inflationary pressures. Performance of Other Banks Citigroup C delivered a positive earnings surprise of 3.9% in fourth-quarter 2018, backed by expense control and lower cost of credit.