Wall Street profits soar to $45.9 billion in first half of 2026, report shows
XLF•U.S. securities industry profits reached $45.9 billion in the first half of 2026, up 51.3% from a year earlier. At the same pace, profits could exceed $90 billion for the year.
1. Profits surge
A report released by New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said U.S. securities industry profits totaled $45.9 billion in the first half of 2026, putting the industry on track for a new annual record. The report cited revived dealmaking, strong trading revenue fueled by market volatility, resilient loan growth and a resurgent IPO market.
2. Industry contribution
Securities profits reached a record $65.1 billion in 2025, up more than 30% from the prior year. The report said the industry contributed at least $7.8 billion to New York City's fiscal 2026 budget, up 15.8% from a year earlier.




