Key facts
- Wall Street profits reached $45.9 billion in the first half of 2026.
- Profits increased by 51% year-over-year.
- AI-related venture capital spending hit $407 billion in the first half of 2026.
- Underwriting revenues rose 68% year-over-year in the first half of 2026.
- The 10-year Treasury yield hit 5.35% on Monday.
Wall Street experienced a booming first half of 2026, with profits surging 51% year-over-year to $45.9 billion, according to a report by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. This growth was fueled by significant investment in artificial intelligence, elevated trading activity in a volatile market, and a strong dealmaking environment benefiting from a relaxed regulatory climate. AI-related venture capital spending reached $407 billion in the first half, and revenues from underwriting activities like IPOs increased by 68%. The report projects full-year profits could exceed $90 billion, potentially setting a new record. However, rising interest rates, with the 10-year Treasury yield hitting 5.35%, present a risk that could dampen future profitability if dealmaking slows or borrowing costs increase.