Archive · 22 Nov 2025
Wells Fargo Whistleblower Wins Right to Sue Over Retaliatory Firing
A man who told the world about fake job interviews at Wells Fargo to make it seem like they were hiring more minorities can now sue the bank for firing him.
The bank says he was fired for being mean to a coworker, but he says that's not true.
A special panel said he can have his day in court.
Joe Bruno, a whistleblower at Wells Fargo, can now sue the bank after losing his bid for secret arbitration.
Bruno claims he was fired for revealing sham interviews with minority job candidates.
Wells Fargo denies the allegations and counters that Bruno was fired for misconduct.
A Finra panel ruled in Bruno's favor, allowing him to proceed with his lawsuit.
Bruno's revelations led to a US Department of Justice investigation and shareholder lawsuits.
- Who
- Joe Bruno, Wells Fargo & Co.
- What
- Wells Fargo lost bid to place wrongful-termination complaint into secret arbitration, allowing Bruno to sue over his firing.
- When
- 2022 (initial revelations), 2024 (Finra panel decision)
- Where
- Wells Fargo & Co.
- Why
- Bruno claims retaliation for revealing sham interviews, Wells Fargo claims misconduct
Bruno's Stance
Wells Fargo's Stance
Reason for Firing
Bruno's Stance
Retaliation for revealing sham interviews
Wells Fargo's Stance
Misconduct and workplace conduct inconsistent with company standards
- Job Candidates
- Minority candidates interviewed for already filled positions
- Investigation
- US Department of Justice opened criminal investigation
- Settlement
- Wells Fargo shareholders reached $85 million settlement over stock price drop
- Decision
- Finra panel ruled in Bruno's favor, allowing him to proceed with lawsuit
- Next Steps
- Bruno to consider settlement or trial with Friedman's advice