Summary
The average Wall Street bonus increased by 6% to $246,500 in the past year, as reported by the New York state comptroller. Wall Street saw a profitable year, with securities industry profits rising over 30% to $65.1 billion. The bonus pool reached a record $49.2 billion, but when adjusted for inflation, it remains lower than past peaks.
Key Facts
- The average Wall Street bonus last year was $246,500, a 6% increase from 2024.
- Securities industry profits rose over 30%, reaching $65.1 billion.
- The total bonus pool was $49.2 billion, up 9% from the previous year.
- These figures exclude stock options and deferred compensation.
- Bonuses are estimated using income tax data for New York City securities employees.
- Inflation-adjusted bonuses last peaked in 2006 at $53.7 billion.
- Bonuses are lower than during the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021 when the market was very active.
- The comptroller noted that job growth slowdown and global issues could impact future finance sector performance.
