BNYM is indeed a low cost provider (in terms of fees we charge). Maybe they aren't the lowest, but the reputation on both the street and people who know our financials would attest they are quite low. The company is CHEAP, pay is very low compared to other firms, and any profit is squandered on failed technology initiatives. Most clients are underwater.
Sec Lending = almost zero margin because of all the fixed costs
FX = better margins, but not enough.
State Street's markets group has a much better model. Citi has lower costs because of their wide custodian network. JPM charges a quite a lot, but they have both scale and the ability to have white glove service models. BBH is also white glove, but they are a joke firm these days. Why would any client go to BNYM?
BNYM has more bureaucrats that create obstacles and red tape while people doing the actual work are either underpaid or let go.
If you seriously dispute BNYM being a low cost provider, you're either a shill for this sinking ship's senior leadership or you actually take the short bus to work.