LONDON Glencore quant vs big asset manager research

I have internship opportunities at Glencore, for quant research, or at a big asset manager (PIMCO, Wellington etc.) to do multi-asset research. Thinking of siding with Glencore... thoughts? Thank you

5 Comments
 

Choosing between Glencore's quant research internship and a big asset manager like PIMCO or Wellington depends on your long-term career goals and interests. Here's a breakdown based on the most helpful WSO content:

  1. Glencore Quant Research:

    • Pros:
      • Exposure to commodities trading, which is a niche but highly lucrative and dynamic field.
      • Quantitative roles at Glencore can provide a strong technical foundation and a unique skill set that is highly valued in trading and hedge fund roles.
      • Glencore's reputation in the commodities space is top-tier, and the experience could open doors to trading desks or quant roles in hedge funds.
    • Cons:
      • The focus on commodities might limit your exposure to broader asset classes, which could be a drawback if you're aiming for a more diversified finance career.
      • The culture and work environment in trading firms like Glencore can be intense and may not suit everyone.
  2. Big Asset Manager (e.g., PIMCO, Wellington):

    • Pros:
      • Asset managers like PIMCO and Wellington are highly respected globally, offering exposure to a wide range of asset classes (fixed income, equities, etc.).
      • These internships often lead to full-time offers, and the structured programs provide excellent training and networking opportunities.
      • If you're interested in long-term investing, portfolio management, or research, this is a great path.
    • Cons:
      • The work might be less fast-paced compared to a trading environment.
      • Breaking into trading or hedge funds from an asset management background can be more challenging compared to starting in a quant/trading role.

Key Considerations: - If you're drawn to the fast-paced, technical world of trading and quant research, Glencore could be a better fit. - If you're more interested in long-term investing, portfolio management, or working with a broader range of asset classes, the big asset manager internship might be the way to go. - Think about the culture and work environment you prefer. Trading firms like Glencore can be intense, while asset managers might offer a more balanced work-life dynamic.

Ultimately, both are excellent opportunities, but your decision should align with your career aspirations and the type of work environment you thrive in. Good luck!

Sources: Breaking into long only Asset Management, Q&A: Equity Analyst at a Sovereign Wealth/Pension Fund, Two Offers, both bad, help me decide, A Response to "Which desk is best?" Type Questions... Please Read Before Posting, So you want to be a Quant?

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

Would be multi-asset.
Not too sure what I am interested in long-term to be honest, both seem good but I think commodities/quant at Glencore might be slightly more interesting.
I would imagine that I would be equal strength in both roles, would definitely have to increase my programming skills for Glencore if I choose it.

 

1.) do you want to increase programming skills?

2.) makes sense that Glencore is more interesting 

Assuming equal comp would probably lean glencore as I find the long only multi asset folks kinda get stuck. You’d think they’d get more traction with macro funds but idk if it’s bc their mandate is to broad/medium term focus. As such if I make the assumption you want to move towards a risk taking role can probably happen faster via glencoee (please chime in commodity house experts)

 

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