Goldman Sachs Leads Wall Street Trading Surge While Warning of Economic Challenges

The bank reported a 15% profit increase in Q1 driven by record equities trading, but executives caution about the uncertain impact of new U.S. tariffs.

Goldman Sachs posted a 15% rise in Q1 profit to $4.74 billion, fueled by a 27% jump in equities trading revenue to a record $4.2 billion.
CEO David Solomon highlighted a 'markedly different operating environment' entering Q2, citing uncertainties from President Trump's new tariffs and potential economic risks.
Investment banking and advisory fees at Goldman fell by 8% and 22%, respectively, reflecting a slowdown in dealmaking amid market volatility.
Other major Wall Street banks, including JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, and Bank of America, also reported strong trading revenues but expressed concerns over inflation and recession risks.
Goldman Sachs executives emphasized their focus on core trading and investment banking operations, with significant retention bonuses awarded to top executives.