Wall Street Bonuses Hit $49.2B in 2025 Despite Inflation, Outlook Dims for 2026

Wall Street paid a record $49.2 billion in bonuses in 2025, driven by a 30% rise in pre-tax profits to $65.1 billion, reflecting a strong market year. However, when adjusted for inflation, these bonuses have not surpassed the 2006 peak, signaling that real earnings gains are more modest. Looking ahead, the 2026 outlook grows cautious as geopolitical tensions and slow job growth threaten industry profits and bonus levels.