Citigroup plans to cut approximately 20,000 jobs, equivalent to about 10% of its global workforce, within the next two years as part of a broader restructuring initiative led by CEO Jane Fraser. This move is aimed at streamlining operations and reducing layers of bureaucracy within the bank. Fraser, who assumed leadership in 2021, envisions 2024 as a pivotal year for the company.
Citi has already divested some of its overseas operations and initiated the listing of its Mexican unit as a standalone entity. Despite reporting a $1.8 billion loss in the last quarter of 2023, attributed to specific factors such as the devaluation of the Argentine peso and a government fee imposed on US banks, Fraser emphasized the progress made in implementing the bank’s strategic plan.
The restructuring is expected to cost around $1 billion in the current year, in addition to the $800 million incurred in the recent quarter. However, the bank anticipates saving $2.5 billion over the medium term. While specific details about job cuts in the UK and affected units were not disclosed, Citi’s workforce is projected to decrease from about 240,000 at the beginning of 2023 to approximately 180,000 by 2025 or 2026.
Citi, one of the largest banks in the US, has faced investor pressure to improve its performance, with profits trailing behind its peers. The recent quarterly loss was influenced by unique circumstances, and for the full year, revenue increased by 4% to $78.5 billion, while profits declined by 38% to $9.2 billion. In comparison, competitors like Wells Fargo and JP Morgan reported revenue growth of 11% and 23%, respectively, with corresponding profit increases. Following the announcement, Citi’s shares experienced a 1.4% decline.
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