2 Comments
 

Stifel Equity Research is a solid starting point, especially if you're aiming to transition into Asset Management (AM) or Hedge Funds (HF) in the future. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's how you can leverage this opportunity:

  1. Build a Strong Foundation in ER: Focus on excelling in your internship. Develop a deep understanding of the sectors you cover, refine your modeling skills, and produce high-quality research. This will not only make you a valuable team member but also give you the technical expertise needed for AM or HF roles.

  2. Network Strategically: Use your time at Stifel to connect with colleagues, alumni, and industry professionals. Attend networking events, reach out to former Stifel employees who transitioned to AM or HF, and maintain relationships with your managers and peers.

  3. Highlight Transferable Skills: Equity Research equips you with skills like financial modeling, valuation, and industry analysis, which are highly relevant for AM and HF roles. Be prepared to articulate how these skills can add value in a buy-side role.

  4. Target Buy-Side Opportunities Early: Many AM and HF firms prefer candidates with prior sell-side experience. Start researching firms that align with your interests and apply for roles that match your expertise. Highlight your ER experience in your applications and interviews.

  5. Consider a Gradual Transition: If a direct jump to a top-tier HF seems challenging, consider starting at a long-only AM firm or a smaller HF. These roles can serve as stepping stones to more prestigious positions.

  6. Leverage WSO Resources: Utilize tools like the WSO Company Database, Resume Reviews, and Mock Interviews to refine your applications and interview skills. Additionally, explore the Hedge Fund Interview Prep and Asset Management resources to prepare for buy-side interviews.

As for Stifel's reputation, while it may not be as prestigious as some bulge bracket firms, it is well-regarded in the mid-market space. Your success will depend more on your performance, networking, and ability to leverage the experience effectively.

Sources: How I got my job in a Hedge Fund after graduation, How to Thrive on Your Research Internship, Fidelity Investments Investment Research Associate Internship 2019, Q&A: HF out of undergrad, ~5 years later, Advice for summer Asset Management interns

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

Quia consequatur esse qui assumenda. Laudantium iste eos ea libero. Nihil accusamus in vel dolor eius nemo. Dolores ea quo quidem harum quam dolores libero. Doloremque iusto minus ratione quia eum eius minima.

Inventore minus nobis accusantium et doloribus expedita. Eveniet laborum maiores nam ad corrupti aut id. Veniam voluptatem sit corrupti. Harum quisquam asperiores rerum est veritatis qui rem dolorem. Rerum harum molestiae non consectetur exercitationem reprehenderit minus. Rerum possimus accusamus iure non sunt aliquid.

Voluptatem aspernatur omnis eligendi voluptas saepe quisquam. Accusantium sunt dolorum neque. Modi adipisci non blanditiis magnam quasi beatae. Non accusantium voluptatum asperiores voluptas ad. Sint reiciendis quia velit eum provident exercitationem quidem voluptatem.

Career Advancement Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.3%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.7%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 98.3%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.7%
  • JPMorgan 01 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (15) $434
  • Associates (46) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (79) $150
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (73) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
5
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
6
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
9
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
10
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”