Citigroup is shortening the path from analyst to associate for junior investment bankers, promoting employees after two years regardless of whether their performance is exceptional. The bank is extending the faster track even to moderate performers, a notable shift from past practice.

The move is a deliberate answer to private equity firms poaching junior bankers before they reach senior roles. The policy change highlights growing pressure across Wall Street to keep entry-level bankers as rival firms openly pursue young bankers.