Breaking into ER

Would it be beneficial to have a portfolio of research reports to reference on your resume/interviews. Similarly, would becoming a contributor to a financial news site like seekingalpha or something similar be viewed as applicable experience? if not, are there some other ways of showcasing work product?

6 Comments
 

Creating a portfolio of research reports and contributing to financial news sites like Seeking Alpha can indeed be beneficial when breaking into Equity Research (ER). Here's why and how you can leverage these strategies:

  1. Portfolio of Research Reports:

    • Having a portfolio of well-crafted research reports demonstrates your analytical skills, understanding of financial modeling, and ability to articulate investment theses.
    • It provides tangible evidence of your capabilities, which can be referenced during interviews or included in your resume.
    • Focus on quality over quantity. Ensure your reports are detailed, include valuation models (e.g., DCF, comparables), and present a clear buy/sell/hold recommendation.
  2. Contributing to Financial News Sites:

    • Writing for platforms like Seeking Alpha showcases your ability to analyze markets, communicate ideas effectively, and engage with a financial audience.
    • It can serve as a form of "published work," which adds credibility to your profile.
    • Highlight your contributions on your resume under a section like "Publications" or "Relevant Experience."
  3. Other Ways to Showcase Work Product:

    • Stock Pitch Competitions: Participate in these to gain experience and demonstrate your ability to pitch investment ideas.
    • Networking: Share your research with professionals in the industry to get feedback and build connections.
    • Certifications: Pursue certifications like CFA or enroll in financial modeling courses to strengthen your technical skills.
    • Internships: Secure internships in ER or related fields to gain hands-on experience.

By combining these strategies, you can build a strong case for your candidacy in ER roles.

Sources: Investment Banking Resume Template - Official WSO CV Example, Investment Banking Resume Template - Official WSO CV Example, Breaking into buy-side equity research - my experience, Long term, concentrated, deep fundamental investing, Q&A: Sell-Side Equity Research today

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

Yes. As an associate in ER if I see someone send me an email without an attached stock pitch/really compelling reason why they want to work in public equities (being in your schools investment club isn’t good enough) I auto delete their email.

Wanna stand out against the other 50 people/week who email me a generic email with a resume? Attach a stock pitch w/ presentation slides and a short report.

 

Don’t send AI written reports. Use AI to help get your ideas down and with grammar but don’t use AI for your ideas.

 

Yes, having a portfolio of research reports or published contributions (like on Seeking Alpha) can definitely strengthen your resume and interviews, as it demonstrates analytical ability and communication skills; other ways to showcase work include writing case studies, building financial models, or sharing insights through blogs and professional networks.

 

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