Marshall Wace vs Polymer vs Eqvilent
I'm currently a sell side quant (one of the top banks) trying to break into buy side. Despite being able to land quite a few interviews from the likes of MLP/Citadel I have had no luck so far with the big names. My recruiter thinks I might have better chance with lesser known places and shared some roles from Marshall Wace, Polymer and Eqvilent and more. I had actually never heard of those places and don't know if they are worth quiting my relatively cushy and stable role on the sell side. Do they have any reputable quant arm? Anybody has any experience with them? Any info you could share about their culture/reputation etc would be highly appreciated.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, Marshall Wace is a well-respected investment management firm known for its long/short equity strategies. They have a significant presence and are considered one of the top hedge funds. They are known for their market-neutral strategies and have a reputable quant arm. The firm is often recognized for its innovative approach to investing and use of technology, which could be a good fit for someone with a quant background.
As for Polymer and Eqvilent, there isn't specific information provided in the context about these firms. However, when considering a move, especially from a stable sell-side role to the buy-side, it's important to evaluate several factors:
Reputation and Track Record: Research the performance and reputation of the fund within the industry. Look for news articles, industry reports, and performance data if available.
Cultural Fit: Culture is crucial. Try to get a sense of the work environment and whether it aligns with your values and work style. This can often be assessed through informational interviews or during the formal interview process.
Career Growth: Consider the potential for professional development and career advancement at the firm. A smaller or lesser-known firm might offer more hands-on experience and responsibilities earlier in your career.
Stability: Evaluate the stability of the fund. This includes looking at the fund's assets under management (AUM), investment strategies, and the tenure of its team.
Compensation and Benefits: Understand the compensation structure and how it compares to your current role. Buy-side roles often have a significant bonus or performance-linked component.
Work-Life Balance: Consider the demands of the role and how they align with your personal life and work-life balance preferences.
Remember, while big names like Citadel or Millennium might have a certain allure, many professionals find rewarding careers at smaller or lesser-known firms where they can have a larger impact and potentially greater growth opportunities. It's always a good idea to conduct thorough due diligence before making a decision.
Sources: Can someone make a LO AM tier list?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/ib-vs-quant-salaries-quality-of-life-etc?customgpt=1, Active Management Crushed Quants This Year (per BB), So you want to be a Quant?, Q&A: Equity Analyst at a Sovereign Wealth/Pension Fund
Marshall wace is actually quite well known. Never heard of the other two.
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