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JP Morgan Chase has notified employees moving into its recently built corporate base in New York that they are required to submit their biological identifiers to enter the multi-billion skyscraper.

Change from Optional to Required

The banking corporation had originally envisioned for the collection of physical identifiers at its recently opened high-rise to be optional.

Nevertheless, workers of the US's largest bank who have started operations at the main office since last month have been sent communications stating that biometric access was now "mandatory".

The Technology Behind Entry

This security method demands personnel to submit their fingerprints to gain access security gates in the lobby in place of scanning their identification cards.

Office Complex Information

The bank's headquarters, which apparently cost $3 billion to build, will eventually serve as a home for ten thousand workers once it is fully occupied before year-end.

Security Rationale

JP Morgan declined to comment but it is believed that the implementation of physical identifiers for entry is intended to make the building better protected.

Exemption Provisions

There are special provisions for specific personnel who will continue to have the option to use a badge for entry, although the requirements for who will employ more standard badge entry remains undefined.

Supporting Mobile Applications

Alongside the deployment of palm and eye scanners, the organization has also launched the "JPMC Work" smartphone application, which functions as a virtual ID and portal for staff resources.

The platform allows users to manage external entry, navigate indoor maps of the facility and pre-order dining from the premises' multiple restaurant options.

Industry-Wide Trends

The implementation of stricter access protocols comes as business organizations, especially those with substantial activities in the city, look to enhance safety following the incident of the top executive of one of the US's largest health insurers in recent months.

The CEO, the leader of the healthcare company, was fatally shot not far from the financial district.

Potential Wider Implementation

It is unclear if JP Morgan aims to introduce biometric access for staff at its branches in other important economic centers, such as London.

Corporate Surveillance Context

The action comes during controversy over the employment of systems to track workers by their organizations, including observing workplace presence.

In recent months, all staff members on flexible arrangements were instructed they have to report to the workplace five days a week.

Management Commentary

The bank's chief executive, the prominent banker, has referred to JP Morgan's state-of-the-art skyscraper as a "impressive representation" of the company.

The banker, one of the influential banking figures, this week warned that the likelihood of the American markets facing a downturn was significantly higher than many financiers thought.