The battle for entry-level talent is getting expensive. And it’s starting before graduates even enter the workforce. Wall Street trading firm Susquehanna International Group is dangling an eye-popping offer for master’s and PhD interns: $8,600 a week—or $86,000 total over a 10-week summer program.
The postings are specifically for 2027 quantitative trader and quantitative research roles in its New York and Philadelphia offices, according to job listings.
Less experienced undergraduate interns can still earn around $7,600 a week, depending on the position, with signing bonuses potentially added on top.
The pay is striking in comparison to the median U.S. worker, who earned about $1,235 per week during the first quarter of this year—meaning they would have to work nearly two months to earn what SIG interns earn in one week.
The compensation comes despite Wall Street’s reputation for long hours and relentless pressure. To sweeten the deal, interns also receive free housing, complimentary breakfast and lunch, and access to social events ranging from poker tournaments and dinners to sporting events.
