I think you're underestimating the amount of money investment bankers typically make. On a bad year, associate levels with about 5 years of experience (level right above entry analysts) including cash bonuses alone can make $300k+, and that might be underestimating, because that was what it was during the dot bomb implosion when IPO's dried up.
Granted the price of RE in Manhattan is incredibly expensive, we're really not talking about people who are going to starve to death. The people that are going to get hurt the most are those in BSC's support role (such as IT, admin, receptionists etc). But I doubt those are the folks RE owners in Manhattan to begin with, or for that matter,analysts below the $200k level.
My data is from relatives and colleagues apparently in the business. Sh!tty lifestyle, but that's why you're partly paid that way for that NYC lifestyle.
Another thing…I don't subscribe to the notion of foreign investors bailing out RE prices. BUT, I would say Manhattan RE is sought location, so I would be surprised seeing a fire sale in Manhattan, especially with a plunging US dollar.
