Based on the most helpful WSO content, breaking into Equity Research (ER) can indeed be challenging. Here's why:

  1. ER is often filled with people from target schools, making the competition quite stiff.
  2. If you're aiming for a specific team, like an internet team at a Bulge Bracket (BB) bank, the opportunities can be limited. Typically, a team is composed of a Senior Analyst, an Analyst, and an Associate. As you can't jump to an Analyst role before being an Associate, you're likely looking at the Associate position. However, turnover in ER is relatively low, with many professionals staying in their roles for 3+ years.

On the other hand, for ER positions with non-Bulge Bracket (non-BB) firms, it might be easier to get in. These firms often take in a variety of people as long as they can demonstrate that they can do the job.

However, it's important to note that the ER field is not necessarily dying, but it is shrinking at BB firms. This is creating opportunities for smaller firms to gain market share and become relevant in Mid-cap/Large-Cap names.

So, while the market might seem tough, there are still opportunities out there. Keep pushing, and remember, every no brings you one step closer to a yes!

Sources: Why are you still trying to break into equity research?, Top 10 Undergrad, Top 10 MBA... Unemployed 3 months, 2 not great offers to decide between, My team just got laid off

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, breaking into Equity Research (ER) can indeed be challenging. Here's why:

  1. ER is often filled with people from target schools, making the competition quite stiff.
  2. If you're aiming for a specific team, like an internet team at a Bulge Bracket (BB) bank, the opportunities can be limited. Typically, a team is composed of a Senior Analyst, an Analyst, and an Associate. As you can't jump to an Analyst position without being an Associate first, you're essentially competing for the Associate position.
  3. There's less turnover in ER, meaning opportunities can be few and far between. It's not uncommon for individuals to stay in their roles for 3+ years.

However, it's worth noting that ER positions with non-Bulge Bracket (non-BB) firms can be easier to secure. These firms are often more open to a diverse range of candidates, as long as they can demonstrate their ability to do the job.

So, while the market can be tough, don't lose hope. Keep honing your skills, networking, and applying. Remember, every no brings you one step closer to a yes!

Sources: Why are you still trying to break into equity research?, Top 10 Undergrad, Top 10 MBA... Unemployed 3 months, 2 not great offers to decide between, My team just got laid off

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

Had same issue when I was applying and I came from a pretty non-traditional background. I had 10+ interviews, and made it further and further w each one, I was getting discouraged but ended up working out at the end. My current industry and analyst are great. Just keep at it, you're bound to get it and everything happens for a reason.

Also, theres typically not a lot of openings rn at the end fiscal year for a lot of companies. Should be new postings in new year with dept .budgets resetting, people leaving post-bonus, etc. 

 

Hi, how many applications did you end up sending to get those 10+ interviews? Did you use headhunters a lot during your search period or did you apply to the companies' career portals? There's almost nothing out there on company portals it seems. I have some small buy-side experience but I want to get sell-side experience at a larger firm in London but the environment seems pretty barren. Thank you

 

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