Up and down Wall Street, men are struggling in the MeToo era, with some deciding the safest course is to just steer clear of women. A Bloomberg News article on the phenomenon prompted an outpouring of reactions, pro and con. Shock, approval, bemusement, anger, sympathy — the comments captured the range. Here’s a sampling, edited for length and clarity:
John Addis, chief investment officer, FourWorld Capital Management
In this business, even the slightest hint of impropriety would cause investors to run first and find out facts later. Reputations can potentially be ruined by a he said-she said with no direct evidence.
Brad Steeples, senior finance manager, Amazon.com Inc.
Men should be able to behave themselves, that goes without saying. The challenge is that all it takes is one false allegation to ruin a career and cost potentially millions of dollars.
David Wyatt, vice president, fixed income, Wilmington Capital
I am so glad I no longer work on a trading floor or have to interact with young women anymore; this environment is toxic for anyone with an outgoing personality. It’s sad to say, but most women are having to pay for the overreaction. What do I tell my granddaughters or grandsons on how to interact? Maybe the answer is until people stop the “I am a victim” mentality that seems to be everywhere, just use the Pence model.
Sallie Krawcheck, chief executive officer, Ellevate Financial Inc.
Seriously? This is the lesson that Wall Street is taking away from the MeToo movement?
Mary P. Talbutt, senior portfolio manager, Stanley-Laman Group Ltd.