. operating expenses were $ 5.27 billion for 2018 , 10% ( 10 % ) higher than 2017 , primarily due to the impact of the recently adopted revenue recognition standard and increased compensation and benefits expenses , reflecting higher net revenues . pre-tax earnings were $ 1.76 billion in 2018 , 24% ( 24 % ) higher than 2017 . see note 3 to the consolidated financial statements for further information about asu no . 2014-09 , 201crevenue from contracts with customers ( topic 606 ) . 201d 2017 versus 2016