I have been on the private markets (VC and PE investing ; no i banking or consulting experience) all my life. For some reason, I did not take an interest in public markets, not even enough to learn how to trade for myself (idk why, I am still trying to figure it out given I am in finance). Recently, I have taken an interest in public markets, including contemplating pivoting to HFs.
Do you have resources (posts, books, courses, etc.) that is good for an absolute noob like me? I am also thinking of learning a programming language and maybe aiming for a quant / algo HF.....would love to get your thoughts on someone with my background.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a roadmap tailored to your background and goals:
1. Resources for Learning Public Markets and Trading
2. Programming for Quant/Algo HFs
3. Transitioning to Hedge Funds
4. Action Plan
With your private markets experience, you already have a strong foundation in finance. By layering in public markets knowledge and programming skills, you’ll position yourself as a competitive candidate for hedge funds, including quant/algo roles.
Sources: Quantitative Analysis and Probability in Trading (Market Makers, HFT, Quant Firms), Top target schools for quant hedge fund or quant/algo prop shop?, Q&A: Non-Target School to Portfolio Manager at a Top Hedge Fund – 6 Years Out of Undergrad, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/literature-to-determine-if-pe-is-a-fit?customgpt=1, Best resource for learning about investing strategies?
You’d likely need to go back to school if you have no stem exp at all for the quant side. Just pick a decent MFE or something adjacent since you alr have the finance background. If you did EE or applied math or physics in undergrad you should be fine though. I’m sure u can get looks at pods and some SMs that would be a faster path. Just be ready or the recruiters won’t want to work with you.
Be wary of MFE / quant masters programs though. Often a cash grab and not worth the risk of leaving for job for it. If you can do some type of STEM masters part time while in your current job tho, that could be good (if you want to try for the quant thing).
Don't make any crazy moves thinking the grass is greener in public markets
Had a friend that went to one at a non-ivy, foreigner got a job at a commodities pod in the right year and got paiiid…he came from a 1k gdp per capita nation. Don’t bash them all.
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