Independent Sell-Side ER Exit Opportunities

What are the potential exit opportunities for a sell-side equity research analyst at a large independent shop that primarily sells into wirehouses, e.g. Morningstar? Is this kind of experience, wherein you have your own coverage, respected by banks or anyone on the buy-side? I, too, have traditional sell-side experience as an Equity Research Associate at a middle market bank, albeit short lived due to a restructuring. Would like to know what exit opportunities I might have.