Key facts
- US securities industry profits totaled $45.9 billion in the first half of 2026.
- Profits in the first half of 2026 surged 51.3% from a year ago.
- Securities profits reached a record $65.1 billion in 2025.
- The industry contributed at least $7.8 billion to New York City's budget in fiscal year 2026.
- The report noted that profits could exceed $90 billion for 2026 if the current pace continues.
Profits for the US securities industry reached $45.9 billion in the first half of 2026, putting the sector on track for a new annual record, according to a report released by New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.
A revival in dealmaking, strong trading revenue fueled by market volatility, resilient loan growth, and a resurgent IPO market have boosted nearly every major Wall Street business this year.
Securities profits had previously soared to a record $65.1 billion in 2025, an increase of more than 30% from the prior year. The report indicated that profits in the first half of 2026 surged 51.3% compared to the same period in 2025. If the current pace is maintained, profits could exceed $90 billion for 2026, surpassing even inflation-adjusted record levels seen in 2009.
The report also highlighted Wall Street's economic importance to New York City, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and generating billions in tax revenue. In fiscal year 2026, the industry contributed at least $7.8 billion to the city's budget, a 15.8% increase from the previous year.