Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Wall Street Bonuses Surge 31.5% to Record $244,700

3/26/2025

44 4

Summary

Story summary

Wall Street bonuses averaged a record $244,700 in 2024, a 31.5% increase from 2023.
The total bonus pool reached $47.5 billion, up 34%, the highest since 1987.
Securities industry profits soared 90% to $49.9 billion, fueled by robust trading and investment banking.
Employment in the sector rose to 201,500, the highest level in 30 years.
Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli warned that economic uncertainties may affect future bonuses.

History

Historical Context

Wall Street's record bonuses in 2024 echo the excesses of the 1980s when golden parachutes surged amid corporate takeovers. This trend, criticized for fostering income inequality, reflects ongoing concerns about executive compensation, reminiscent of the backlash during the 2008 financial crisis against lavish payouts despite taxpayer bailouts.

1 of 2

Story summary

Wall Street bonuses averaged a record $244,700 in 2024, a 31.5% increase from 2023.
The total bonus pool reached $47.5 billion, up 34%, the highest since 1987.
Securities industry profits soared 90% to $49.9 billion, fueled by robust trading and investment banking.
Employment in the sector rose to 201,500, the highest level in 30 years.
Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli warned that economic uncertainties may affect future bonuses.

1 / 2