Wow, it sure depends on which side of the pond you live on. There are regional airlines cold calling anyone with an ATP to get them to go fly for them.
All the airlines are ramping up hiring. At American/US Airways we are anticipating hiring 100 pilots per month for the foreseeable future.
I'm sure working for a hedge fund is lucrative. I also hear it involves long hours and a high rate of burnout. You will have to decide which lifestyle suits you. Since you left Easy for a selfless reason they should be happy to have you back.