Texas ER work life?

Debating making the switch over to ER and was curious if anyone had any insight into ER in Texas. Debating pivoting for a number of reasons but won’t get into that here.

Obviously, team dependent on work life but was curious if anyone had any insight into what the work life looks like and if any shops may be better than others. Just want to understand what I may be getting myself into. Have heard Goldman ER is growing in Dallas so if anyone has insight there that would be much appreciated.

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, Equity Research (ER) generally offers a better work-life balance compared to Investment Banking (IB), though it is still team-dependent. Here are some insights that might help you:

  1. Work-Life Balance in ER:

    • ER is often praised for its more predictable hours compared to IB. While there are busy periods, especially during earnings season, the workload is generally more manageable.
    • Limited weekend work is common, with some teams logging in for a few hours on Sundays, but this is not a weekly occurrence for most.
    • Taking time off is more flexible in ER since there are no ongoing deals that might blow up, unlike IB.
  2. Texas ER Scene:

    • While specific details about Texas-based ER teams are not explicitly mentioned, the general ER culture tends to prioritize a balance between professional and personal life.
    • If Goldman Sachs' ER team in Dallas is growing, it could be a promising opportunity. Goldman is known for its strong brand and resources, which could provide a solid platform for career growth.
  3. Team-Specific Dynamics:

    • The work-life balance and overall experience in ER can vary significantly depending on the team and firm. Some teams may have more demanding schedules, especially during earnings or if they cover high-profile sectors.

If you're considering the switch, ER in Texas could be a great move, especially if you're looking for a role that offers intellectual engagement with public markets while maintaining a healthier lifestyle compared to IB.

Sources: Unironically - ER is a paradise, Unironically - ER is a paradise, Work/Life Balance: Equity Research vs. Investment Banking - (A Definitive Guide, Part 1), Q&A: ER Analyst at Top BB (Plus About ER & General Advice), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/equity-research/qa-er-analyst-at-top-bb-plus-about-er-general-advice?customgpt=1

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
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Many O&G research teams are in TX, usually Houston. I know RBC has a team in Austin. I haven’t heard of any teams in Dallas. Unless you want to do O&G/Energy, I think it will be tough. 

As far as W/L balance, it’s team/analyst dependent a as always. It’s nice starting and ending an hour earlier. One downside is needing to drive for the commute, but obviously this depends on where you actually live and you could choose to live walking distance. You don’t have a 100 associates working in the pit with you and your DOR can’t physically keep an eye on you to enforce WFH rules, so tends to be more flexible which is nice.

 

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