Articles & Dilemmas
Take the Oath
You are here: Home/You are here: Home/Articles & Dilemmas

The ethics of bonuses

Tuesday 21 September, 2021
by 2021 BFSO Young Ambassador

You’re an investment operations analyst working in a large bank. You notice that one of the FX traders is placing very large bets. While these bets are technically inside the limits, you know the trader plans to leave the bank following this bonus round.

 At your bank, traders are paid bonuses based on the results of their trades.

 What would you do?

  •  What – if any – action would you take?
  • Would you speak up against this type of remuneration?

We challenge you to create a healthy discussion with your colleagues and post a comment below. You could even encourage them to consider taking The Banking and Financial Services Oath! If you would like to submit an ethical dilemma to feature in an upcoming weekly challenge please email: dilemma@bfso.org.

Photo by Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash

Comments

There are 1 comments for The ethics of bonuses.

Re: The ethics of bonuses

Thursday 23 September, 2021
by Quinten
I think if the bonus system is attached to the individual alone you miss out on an opportunity to drive the team as a team. Perhaps this could be addressed by having a group bonus system. This would also encourage people to support each other?
Reply

Leave a Comment

Join the conversation. Your email address will not be published.

Required fields are marked: This is a required field.

Add a Comment
Input Verification To help us avoid spam, please enter the text exactly as you see it in the image below. If your text doesn't match the image, you'll be able to try again with a different image.
Load a different image
Submit Form

The Oath

  • Trust is the foundation of my profession.
  • I will serve all interests in good faith.
  • I will compete with honour.
  • I will pursue my ends with ethical restraint.
  • I will help create a sustainable future.
  • I will help create a more just society.
  • I will speak out against wrongdoing and support others who do the same.
  • I will accept responsibility for my actions.
  • In these and all other matters;
    My word is my bond.