Best path to work at a HF (taking into account AI/hours)

Ah, the age-old question of the best path to a hedge fund career – a classic conundrum for the ambitious monkeys in the jungle of high finance. Let's peel this banana and take a closer look at your options:

1. Trading:

   • Pros: If you're leaning towards trading, you're looking at potentially shorter hours compared to banking. Plus, you'll get immediate exposure to the markets, which is invaluable for a career in hedge funds, especially if you're eyeing credit or macro strategies.
   • Cons: The downside might be the automation trend (AI), which is changing the landscape of trading. You'll need to stay adaptable and continuously develop your skill set to remain relevant.

2. Investment Banking (IB):

   • Pros: On the other hand, investment banking offers a broad foundation in financial analysis and deal-making. It's a tried and tested route to hedge funds, particularly for long/short equity or event-driven strategies. The skill set you develop here is highly transferable.
   • Cons: The hours can be brutal, and you might find some of the work to be a bit, let's say, less than thrilling.

Now, for the flexibility to lateral or change paths later on:

• Internships: Whichever path you choose initially, securing internships in both trading and banking could give you a taste of each world and keep doors open for you. Internships are like free samples at the grocery store – they let you try before you buy into a career path.

• Graduate Programs: Look for rotational programs that allow you to experience different desks or divisions within a firm. This could give you the chance to swing from branch to branch before settling on your favorite tree in the finance forest.

Remember, the path to a hedge fund is not a straight line but more of a jungle gym. It's about gathering a diverse set of skills and experiences that you can leverage later on. So, whether you start in trading or banking, focus on building a strong financial foundation, network like a social butterfly, and always keep an eye on the prize – your hedge fund dream.

And don't forget, while you're hustling hard, swing by the WSO forums for some bananas... I mean, advice, along the way. Cheers!

Sources: JP Morgan Internal Mobility.. For Interns?, Lateraling Guide for Investment Banking, Would a Virtual Summer Analyst Program be Possible?, Moving from a MO function (risk/finance) to banking?, IB Analyst Lateral Move Period