Inappropriate WFH incident cost banker millions

A Goldman Sachs banker has reportedly lost millions of dollars after mistakenly sending a sexually explicit video to a junior female colleague while working from home. The banker reached a settlement with another Goldman employee after unintentionally including explicit images in a work-related video, according to Bloomberg.

The incident occurred when he forgot to turn off his camera and recorded himself engaging in explicit activities. Following the receipt of the video, the woman hired a lawyer who sought approximately £23.5 million ($30 million) in damages on her behalf. Eventually, the banker, whose brother is a well-known computer entrepreneur, agreed to pay a multi-million dollar settlement to resolve the incident that occurred in 2020. He has since left the bank.

Goldman Sachs has disputed the report, stating that it contains "significant factual errors." Tony Fratto, the global head of communications at Goldman Sachs, criticized the reporting, claiming it fails to meet journalistic standards. However, the bank did not provide further details regarding the alleged errors. 

The report of the bankers accidental sharing of an explicit video comes at a time when Wall Street and financial institutions are facing accusations of having an overly macho culture and failing to promote women to senior positions. Last month, Goldman Sachs agreed to pay $215 million to settle a lawsuit alleging that the bank had underpaid female bankers for years. The settlement included hiring an independent expert to analyze performance evaluation processes and conduct pay equity studies. The bank has expressed its commitment to improving gender diversity in senior positions and addressing the concerns raised by women about the bank's culture.