Nomura to match Lehman's '07 Asia bonus pool-sources

HONG KONG, Sept 30 (Reuters) - Japan's Nomura Holdings (8604.T) plans to match last year's bonus pool for Lehman Brothers' (LEHMQ.PK) Asia group, according to sources familiar with the matter, in an effort to prevent Lehman bankers from leaving.

The move is also aimed at showing Nomura's commitment to Lehman bankers, who are still reeling from the collapse of the 158-year old New York institution.

The exact size of the bonus pool and exactly who is entitled to it is unclear, with top performers expected to get first claim.

Lehman's Asia-based bankers will be offered cash for their 2008 bonus, the sources say, adding that in some cases, 2009 bonus money will be guaranteed as well.

The breakdown of cash and stock is unclear. Cash is especially appealing now that bank share prices have plummeted.

The bonus guarantee is seen as generous, both inside and outside Lehman, given the market plunge and the uncertainty of bonuses at other banks that are still in decent shape.

Lehman declined to comment. Nomura did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Nomura, Japan's largest brokerage, scooped up Lehman's Europe, Middle East and Asia operations after Lehman was forced into bankruptcy earlier this month.

Nomura is paying up to $525 million for Lehman's Asia group, whose main hubs are Tokyo and Hong Kong.

Media and trader reports indicated that Nomura would keep Lehman's Europe and the Middle East 2008 bonus pool the same as 2007. Sources confirmed on Tuesday that the same is true for Lehman's Asia bankers.

Nomura plans to offer jobs to all Lehman's 3,000 people in Asia, sources say.

Nomura has just over 1,000 staff working in the Asia-Pacific region and employs 14,000 in its main base, Japan.

Contracts have been distributed to Lehman staff in the last few days, asking them to indicate if they plan to remain with the combined company, according to one source at Lehman, who did not want to be named.

Investment bankers typically earn most of their money in an annual bonus, which can range from several hundred thousand dollars to several million dollars depending on performance. Annual salary is nominal by comparison. (Editing by Mathew Veedon)