Wall Street Bonuses Set to Surge as Market Conditions Improve
After years of decline, Wall Street bonuses are expected to increase significantly in 2024, driven by a rebound in investment banking and equity markets.
- Investment bankers, particularly debt underwriters, anticipate the highest bonus increases, ranging from 15% to 25%.
- Equity underwriters and traders in fixed income and equities are projected to see bonus rises between 10% and 20%.
- Despite overall sector improvements, bonuses in commercial and retail banking are expected to remain flat or decrease.
- Private equity remains the only segment where compensation has surpassed 2021 levels, reflecting a smaller but highly compensated workforce.
- The resurgence in initial public offerings and higher trading volumes are key factors contributing to the anticipated bonus hikes.