Boston.com | ‘Incredibly disruptive’: Readers react to Fidelity’s five-day return to office mandate by Annie Jonas AI generated summary, Read the full article for complete information. Fidelity Investments announced that, beginning in September, all 6,200 Boston‑based employees—including managers at the vice‑president level and above—will be required to work in the office five days a week, ending the company’s hybrid model that previously allowed two full weeks of in‑person work each month; only customer‑support phone roles and three other Fidelity sites (Merrimack, New Hampshire; Kentucky; and New Mexico) are exempt. The firm framed the shift as a “thoughtful, gradual approach” aimed at fostering mentorship, collaboration and a stronger culture, while acknowledging diverse personal circumstances. Boston.com’s poll of over 550 readers showed a 69 % opposition rate, with concerns about work‑life balance, commuting costs, and potential turnover, whereas roughly a quarter supported the move for its perceived productivity and social benefits. Commenters warned the mandate could drive talent away, penalize caregivers, increase traffic, and prioritize corporate real‑estate over employee well‑being, while a smaller group argued that full‑time office presence could enhance teamwork, learning and economic vitality. Read more: https://www.boston.com/community/readers-say/2026/04/30/readers-react-fidelity-five-day-return-to-office-mandate/ #FidelityInvestments #Bostoncom #community #jobs #localnews