. the firm asks its participating managing directors to make recommendations regarding potential charitable recipients for this contribution . 2013 versus 2012 . operating expenses on the consolidated statements of earnings were $ 22.47 billion for 2013 , 2% ( 2 % ) lower than 2012 . compensation and benefits expenses on the consolidated statements of earnings were $ 12.61 billion for 2013 , 3% ( 3 % ) lower compared with $ 12.94 billion for 2012