The expansion is fueled by increased spending on artificial intelligence, a rise in trading volumes and stronger M&A activity. This growth is expected to drive industry bonuses to an all-time high, exceeding the record haul distributed to Wall Street employees in 2025.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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Wall Street Profits Pace $90B Record on 51% First Half Surge
Earnings14 days ago
Investment banks and trading houses in New York have already generated more income than the city projected for the entire year after only six months of business. New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli reported that profits hit $45.9B in the first half of 2026, a 51% increase year-over-year that surpasses the city's full-year forecast of $45.3B. The current trajectory places annual earnings on track to top $90B, approximately $25B higher than the 2025 record of $65.1B.
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