Goldman CFO Highlights Intense Competition for Banking Talent Amid M&A Boom

December 10, 2025 - 02:53

Goldman Sachs' Chief Financial Officer, Denis Coleman, has emphasized the growing competition for talent among investment banks as the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) landscape heats up. With a robust pipeline of M&A activity expected to continue into 2026, financial institutions are scrambling to attract and retain top dealmakers. This competitive environment is not only reshaping hiring strategies but also driving up compensation packages in a bid to secure the best professionals in the field.

Coleman noted that the demand for skilled bankers is at an all-time high, reflecting the resurgence of M&A activity following a period of relative stagnation. As firms look to capitalize on emerging opportunities, the race to recruit experienced talent has intensified, leading to innovative approaches in talent acquisition and retention.

The ongoing battle for skilled professionals is a clear indicator of the optimism surrounding the M&A cycle, suggesting that investment banks are gearing up for a significant increase in deal-making activity in the coming years.