merger arbitrage interview tips, book recs?

prepping for a merger arbitrage analyst interview, no previous relevant background in M&A, would recommend any suggestions for how to prep (books to read, websites/newsletters that merger arb people typically read, etc.). thanks!

P.S. I already found some stuff through google search, but it's obviously valuable to hear from folks who have actual work/interview experience in this space

2 Comments
 

Based on previous WSO threads, here are some tips and recommendations for preparing for a merger arbitrage analyst interview:

Interview Preparation Tips:

  1. Understand the Basics:

    • Make sure you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of merger arbitrage, including the strategies used and the risks involved.
  2. Stay Updated on News:

    • Regularly read news sources that cover mergers and acquisitions. This will help you stay informed about recent deals and market trends.
  3. Practice Technical Skills:

    • Be prepared to discuss financial modeling, valuation techniques, and other technical skills relevant to M&A and merger arbitrage.

Recommended Books:

  1. "Investment Banking: Valuation, Leveraged Buyouts, and Mergers and Acquisitions" by Joshua Rosenbaum and Joshua Pearl:

    • This book provides a comprehensive overview of valuation techniques and M&A processes, which are crucial for understanding merger arbitrage.
  2. "You Can Be a Stock Market Genius" by Joel Greenblatt:

    • Although not solely focused on merger arbitrage, this book covers special situations investing, including merger arbitrage strategies.

Recommended Newsletters and Websites:

  1. Dealbook (NYTimes):

    • Good coverage of big deals and interesting transactions. Staying updated with Dealbook can help you understand the current M&A landscape.
  2. PE Hub:

    • Provides news and deals related to private equity and venture capital, which can be relevant for understanding broader market trends.
  3. Bullpen News:

    • Offers a great weekly summary of deals and other business news. Subscribing to this newsletter can help you stay informed about recent developments.
  4. Wall Street Journal (WSJ):

    • If you have access, WSJ is a valuable resource for high-quality articles on finance and M&A.
  5. Financial Times:

    • Another excellent source for in-depth articles on finance and business news, though it may require a subscription.

Additional Tips:

  • Talk to Alumni and Upperclassmen:

    • Networking with people who have experience in merger arbitrage can provide valuable insights and advice.
  • Review WSO Posts:

    • There are many helpful posts on Wall Street Oasis that cover interview preparation and industry knowledge. Make sure to explore these resources.

Good luck with your interview preparation!

Sources: Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, In Search of Wisdom, Beginner Interview Prep Tips, Books to read about M&A before start full time, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/what-is-the-best-book-to-get-ready-for-interviews-in-restructuring?customgpt=1

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

Voluptatem adipisci qui iure fuga. Fuga quidem qui ut hic fuga quia sit. Eos et quaerat recusandae iure eum cumque.

Magni sunt iure aut et occaecati animi quae. Repudiandae et molestiae repellendus et quasi eum voluptas. Eum tempora voluptates et ut sint rerum. Iusto sunt quasi dolor repellendus et placeat. Cum maiores explicabo reiciendis debitis. Perferendis nemo vel aut mollitia nihil suscipit minus.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Hedge Fund

  • Point72 99.0%
  • D.E. Shaw 98.1%
  • Citadel Investment Group 97.1%
  • AQR Capital Management 96.2%
  • Magnetar Capital 95.2%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Hedge Fund

  • Magnetar Capital 99.0%
  • Millennium Partners 98.1%
  • D.E. Shaw 97.1%
  • Blackstone Group 96.1%
  • Citadel Investment Group 95.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Hedge Fund

  • AQR Capital Management 99.1%
  • Point72 98.1%
  • D.E. Shaw 97.2%
  • Citadel Investment Group 96.2%
  • Magnetar Capital 95.3%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Hedge Fund

  • Portfolio Manager (9) $1,648
  • Vice President (27) $464
  • Director/MD (12) $423
  • NA (9) $320
  • Engineer/Quant (86) $288
  • 3rd+ Year Associate (26) $284
  • Manager (4) $282
  • 2nd Year Associate (32) $253
  • 1st Year Associate (76) $192
  • Analysts (240) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (28) $146
  • Junior Trader (5) $102
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (282) $96
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”