Is American Express Stock Underperforming the Nasdaq?

New York-based American Express Company (AXP) operates as an integrated payments company in the United States and internationally. The company has a market cap of $225 billion and operates through four segments: U.S. Consumer Services, Commercial Services, International Card Services, and Global Merchant and Network Services. 

Companies with a market cap of $200 billion or more are typically referred to as “mega-cap stocks.” AXP fits perfectly into that category, with its market cap exceeding this threshold and reflecting its substantial size and influence in the credit services industry.  

AXP stock reached its 52-week high of $387.49 on December 12, 2025, and has slipped 14.3% from that peak. The stock has grown 4.9% over the past three months, outperforming the Nasdaq Composite ($NASX), which fell 1.9% over the same period.  

Over the longer term, the scenario changes. AXP is up nearly 1.5% over the past 52 weeks, lagging behind NASX's 21.6% return over the same period.   

AXP has been trading below its 200-day and 50-day moving averages since this month.

On July 24, AXP stock declined 4.3% following the release of its mixed Q2 2026 earnings. The company’s revenue for the quarter rose 19.4% from the prior year’s period to $19.6 billion and missed the Street’s forecasts. Moreover, its adjusted EPS amounted to $4.53, topping Wall Street’s estimates. American Express expects full-year revenue growth of 10%, up slightly from a previous outlook of 9% to 10% growth, with EPS guidance of $17.30 to $17.90. 

When stacked against its peer in the credit services industry, Mastercard Incorporated (MA) shares have grown marginally over the past 52 weeks, underperforming AXP stock.    

Wall Street’s view of AXP stock is moderately optimistic. Among the 31 analysts covering the stock, the overall consensus rating is “Moderate Buy.” Its mean price target of $376.10 offers a 12.9% upside potential.