Chief executive officers of companies in the S&P 500 received pay packages that grew almost 10% in 2024, based on an industry survey. The rise happened while the stock market performed strongly, with the S&P 500 going up more than 23% and company profits expanding by over 9%. Many firms changed pay systems to connect compensation with performance, often using stock awards. These awards usually require companies to hit goals in profit or stock value before executives can collect them. The typical pay for CEOs reached $17.1 million, while the median salary for employees stayed at about $85,400. In some industries where wages are low, the gap became extreme, more than 1,000 times higher than the average worker’s pay.

The survey showed the top earners came from technology, aerospace, and entertainment. One leader in security and technology was given a package worth over $160 million, mostly tied to long-term goals until 2030. Women CEOs also gained record presence, with 27 included and a median pay of $20 million. Experts said stock-based pay created a formidable increase in executive earnings. Analysts added that the wide gaps may bring a detrimental impact on morale and turnover. Observers described the issue as conspicuous in current debates and a quintessential sign of corporate inequality. Supporters, however, argued that such pay gives a coherent market signal supported by shareholders.