Published April 17, 2021, 6:00 AM NEW YORK (AFP) – Citigroup announced on Thursday it will exit 13 international consumer banking markets as it joined other large banks in reporting blowout earnings amid a strengthening US economy. As with other large banks, Citigroup’s profits were bolstered by a good performance in its investment banking and trading businesses, as well as the release of $3.9 billion in reserves set aside for bad loans. ”It’s been a better-than-expected start to the year, and we are optimistic about the macro environment,” said Citi Chief Executive Jane Fraser. Citi Chief Executive Jane Fraser (Photo by Julian R. Photography /AFP)