Why did IB SA 2022 finish recruiting SO damn early this year

So I just started applying and it seems like most people I know already have IB offers for 2022 summer (mostly nyc). Since so many banks have already finished recruitment, I feel like my options now are mostly MM or much less known banks. My question is why tf did banks recruit so early this year? Is it because of covid?
It’s crazy to me that you have to start interviewing when you haven’t even finished your sophomore year internship (if you’re doing one). Just makes me mad that I missed out because I didn’t think to start more than a year early… competition just seems impossible nowadays

I wish I had the answer but you’re def not alone, I started later too and missed my shot with BBs

to make them seem more competitive and exclusive