Big Bank CEO Pay Soars: Morgan Stanley’s Pick at $45M and Wells Fargo’s Scharf at $40M
CEO pay across top banks rose dramatically in 2025, led by Morgan Stanley’s Ted Pick at $45M and Wells Fargo’s Charlie Scharf at $40M after regulatory restrictions were lifted. Compensation increases reflected record trading revenues, stronger deal‐making volumes and deregulatory measures that fueled balance‐sheet growth.
1. 2025 Compensation Surge
Chief executive pay across major banks jumped significantly in 2025, with aggregate increases driven by a combination of financial and non-financial performance metrics. Boards credited rising stock prices, earnings targets and strategic goals as key factors in determining total compensation packages.
2. Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs Details
Morgan Stanley CEO Ted Pick received $45M in 2025, representing a 32% decline from peers yet still ranking him second highest behind Goldman Sachs. Goldman CEO David Solomon maintained the top overall compensation, reflecting strong trading and advisory revenues.
3. Wells Fargo’s Pay Jump After Relief
Wells Fargo CEO Charlie Scharf’s annual pay climbed 28% to $40M following the lifting of long-standing growth restrictions and consent orders. The bank also achieved market share gains in investment banking as regulatory barriers eased.
4. Market Drivers and 2026 Outlook
Banks benefited from a volatile but rising market that bolstered trading income and deal‐making activity, key drivers of 2025 compensation. Despite recent stock price declines, executives remain optimistic about continued M&A momentum and potential large-scale IPOs in 2026.