Profits from New York Stock Exchange member firms’ broker-dealer operations are projected to exceed $90 billion in 2026, according to a report from the New York State Comptroller. [2, 3, 5] That would surpass the previous record of $65.1 billion, set in 2025. [4, 8] The gains are expected to lead to a new high for year-end bonuses. [4, 8]
The industry’s performance has been driven by a boom in artificial intelligence spending, elevated trading volumes and a significant rebound in merger and acquisition activity. [5, 10]
First-half profits reached $45.9 billion, up 51% from the same period last year. [4, 15, 2] Underwriting revenues rose 68%. [4, 15, 2]