Current state of Prop trading?

Hi everyone!

I'm currently torn between two offers, and would appreciate some insight and views on the job outlook.

I currently work at a major exchange, doing quant development, primarily in python. I have two offers on the table:

1) Quant development at a major IB. This would be a steady job with long hours but good comp and exit opportunities.

2) Day trading at prop firm. They provide the capital, and you keep 20% of gross or 65% of net profits. There is no cap on the income. However, this old school point and click trading, there are no quant or technical skills built here. The hours and work life balance are excellent. The top 20% of traders have fantastic lifestyles.

My question is, in light of recent changes to bank prop trading regulations, how do you see prop as a career? How important is it for a prop desk to be quant rather than discretionary, from the perspective of building marketable skills? Any personal experience in a similar situation?

Thanks everyone!

 

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