Six Wall Street bank chiefs bring in combined pay of $250mn in 2025
Financial Times
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The combined pay of six top Wall Street bank chiefs reached $250 million in 2025, with each CEO earning over $40 million. This staggering figure underscores the growing disparity between executive compensation and median worker salaries in the banking sector. The earnings reflect bonuses tied to stock performance and retention incentives, with executives at major institutions like JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs leading the pack. These figures highlight the continued focus on rewarding top leadership amid economic uncertainties.
The gap between CEO pay and average bank employee earnings has widened significantly over the past decade. While exact numbers for 2025 were not disclosed, industry trends suggest a pattern of increasing inequality. Critics argue that such high payouts come at a time when public trust in Wall Street is already strained due to slow recovery from recent financial crises.
This trend raises important questions about corporate priorities and accountability. Advocacy groups are calling for greater transparency in executive compensation structures and stronger regulatory oversight. The issue also reflects broader concerns about income inequality in the U.S., with critics questioning whether such vast sums contribute to economic stability or further divide society.
Ultimately, the debate over CEO pay is not just about individual success but about the broader implications for business practices and societal welfare. As Wall Street continues to set records for executive compensation, the focus on accountability and fair labor practices remains a critical issue for stakeholders and regulators alike.
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Originally published on Financial Times on 2/14/2026