The debate on salary vs perks in Biglawdom continues on. Meanwhile, words on HSBC’s strategy.

* NYC is on track to beat London in IPO volume. $51.3BN have been raised so far this year in NYSE/Nasdaq IPOs, versus $45.8BN on the LSE/Aim, reports the FT (via Alphaville). London’s deals tally up to 208 compared to 202 New York deals.

* Big debate going on about your colleagues over in biglawdom. NYT reports thoroughly about Big Law perks, which are becoming more lifestyle-helping/morale-boosting in nature, such as concierge services, nap rooms and wine parties. This is not to say comp isn’t increasing. Reports NYT “At the New York office of Cravath, Swaine & Moore, an old-line firm, associates will receive special payouts of $10,000 to $50,000, in addition to their year-end bonuses up to $35,000.” For associates who have been with Sullivan & Cromwell for more than six months, mortgage guarantees of $100,000 are available.

* A few words from HSBC chairman Stephen Green on the bank’s strategy: no plans to exit its “U.S. or the bank’s U.S. consumer-finance business”, reports the WSJ, but poorly performing units will be up for consideration. HSBC is aiming to get more of the emerging market action, approximately “60% of pretax profit from emerging markets, an increase from 51% in the first half.”