NEW YORK — Wall Street’s bonus pool reached an unprecedented high in 2025, with total payouts climbing 9% year-over-year to a staggering $49.2 billion, according to the New York State Comptroller’s Office. The announcement made Thursday highlights the financial sector’s robust performance despite global economic uncertainties.
Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli’s annual assessment revealed that the average individual bonus increased by 6% to $246,900. This substantial compensation growth occurred alongside a remarkable 30% surge in total industry profits, which soared to $65.1 billion.
The extraordinary bonus season was fueled by exceptional performances across multiple banking divisions. Major financial institutions reported particularly strong results in asset and wealth management services, alongside significant gains in equity brokerage operations and private equity investments.
The securities industry remains a crucial contributor to New York’s fiscal health. During the 2024-25 fiscal year, Wall Street activities generated 19.4% of New York State’s total tax revenue and accounted for 8.4% of New York City’s municipal tax collections.
Compensation data from 2024—the most recent year with available figures—shows the average securities industry salary including bonuses reached $505,677. This represents the second-highest historical level and approximately quintuple the average private-sector wage within the nation’s financial capital.