EXCLUSIVE-BofA bonuses will jump for investment bankers this year, sources say

By Saeed Azhar and Milana Vinn

NEW YORK, Dec 19 (Reuters) - Bank of America will boost bonus payouts for its best performing investment bankers after a surge in deals this year, according to two sources familiar with the matter.

Top dealmakers could get increases of about 20%, while payouts could be flat for mid-level performers, one of the sources said. Year-end compensation discussions are still in progress and the numbers could change.

Last year, the second-biggest U.S. bank increased average bonuses by 10%. The bank traditionally informs bankers about the payouts in January.

BofA declined to comment.