Home » UK Business News • UK Employment news » City banks push for office return amid economic uncertainty

City banks push for office return amid economic uncertainty

By Nithya Bose in UK Business News, posted September 15, 2023

City banks in London are pressuring their staff to return to the office, signaling a shift away from remote work flexibility during the pandemic.

Factors like a desire for a more normal work environment and certainty regarding real estate utilization contribute to this shift.

There are also concerns about the city's competitiveness in the global financial sector.

The return-to-office push is driven by concerns that London could lose its financial center status to rival cities like Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Luxembourg.

While some businesses demand a three-day office presence, others advocate for four days a week in the office.

Investment banks are eager to have their employees back in the office.

The lack of in-person presence can hinder collaboration and the exchange of ideas, especially for younger professionals.

While some banks had previously offered enticing office incentives, the current approach appears more strict, focusing on the necessity of in-office work.

Need Career Advice? Get employment skills advice at all levels of your career

Overall, being visible in the office is crucial in the current climate.

Despite the concerns about London's financial sector, it still holds many advantages over its rivals, such as a vibrant and dynamic work environment.

However, challenges persist, including issues in the stock market, where London-listed shares are undervalued and unattractive to investors.

The return to office culture is not uniform across all businesses, with some moving faster than others.

JP Morgan, for instance, had its managing directors return to the office full-time in April.

Similarly, Goldman Sachs has a significant number of employees back in its offices.

Follow us on YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.