Citsec Fundamental Analyst vs Optiver Equity Analyst

In the process for one and have an FT offer from the other. I understand both are kind of side-shows ie you are supporting the traders. Long-term I'm interested in something like a quant research-type direction but unfortunately do not have the skills to get into that field yet. Which allows me to get there? (ie which is more flexible)

Also on comp, looks like optiver has a lower base, but where is bonus typically capped at? (given that it's not the main event)

Thanks in advance

13 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

  1. Flexibility for Transition to Quant Research:

    • Both roles (Citsec Fundamental Analyst and Optiver Equity Analyst) are support functions for traders, but they differ in their focus.
    • Optiver, being a market-making firm, might expose you to a more quantitative and trading-oriented environment, which could align better with your long-term goal of transitioning into quant research. However, without strong quant skills, the transition might still be challenging.
    • Citsec's Fundamental Analyst role might provide a more traditional finance and research foundation, which could be less directly aligned with quant research but still valuable if you aim to build a broader skill set before specializing.
  2. Compensation:

    • Optiver is known for having a lower base salary for support roles compared to trading positions. Bonuses in these roles are typically not as high as those for traders, as they are not directly tied to P&L. While exact caps aren't specified, bonuses in support roles at trading firms like Optiver are generally more modest.
    • Citsec's compensation structure for fundamental analysts might be more stable but less performance-driven compared to Optiver.
  3. Recommendation:

    • If your long-term goal is quant research, Optiver might offer a more relevant environment to develop quantitative and trading-related skills. However, you should also consider the specific team, culture, and opportunities for skill development at each firm.
    • If compensation is a significant factor, you may want to clarify bonus structures directly with Optiver to understand the total comp potential.

Ultimately, the decision should weigh your long-term goals, the skills you want to develop, and the environment where you feel you can grow the most.

Sources: Compensation Structure At Quant VS Fundamental Funds, Compensation Structure At Quant VS Fundamental Funds, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/ib-vs-quant-salaries-quality-of-life-etc?customgpt=1, Allianz Global Investors Graduate Programme vs IB?, MBB vs Quant at IBank

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

bump -- this is pretty time-senstive so would appreciarte a repsonse!

 

C brand name is strong, would be great to have that optionality in your career for mid/long term oportunities (I’m not in a hf so speaking from outside)

 

bro cit sec and optiver are the same what are you talking about. fundamental at prop trading is not a great role comparitively to any other fundamental role

 

hey what's TC like for citsec fundamental analyst? base looks solid but is sign-on + discretionary bonus >75% of that? deciding whether to interview or stay at mid-tier firm

also from what ik optiver gives u marbles (usually worth ~3.5k) scaling from 50/100/200/400 every level. however, this may be different/lower for equity analyst

 

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