Wall Street Bankers on Pace for Big Pay Bumps in 2026 Amid AI Gold Rush

As the AI boom spurs activity across almost every corner of Wall Street, bankers are coming out on top in compensation hikes. 

“The big banks had a very good 2025. They’re doing at least as well, if not better, this year, and pay will be up significantly,” Alan Johnson, managing director of Johnson Associates, said in an interview. 

“They’re going to be pay leaders for the first time in probably a decade,” Johnson added. 

The report also provides guidance on how AI is expected to influence pay and talent in the quarters ahead as automation takes over junior analysts’ workloads. 

“Longer term, there may be fewer people in the [finance] industry, but on average, they’re going to be better, have more diversified skills, and probably will get paid more money,” said Johnson. 

“If you can weather the AI storm, your career opportunities are maybe even better,” he added. 

Yahoo Finance / May 7, 2026