Try IB boutique or continue recruiting for HF?

Currently a BB ER associate (rising 3rd yr) covering a commodities-related sector. Ultimate goal is HF (event driven would be a dream) but would also take MM as the “catalyst” part of an investing role is most aligned to investment style.

Have an opportunity to go into M&A in a boutique (non EB, sector specific) or spend another year on recruiting (quite passively given current market environment and lack of hiring - could be cyclical/summer/picking back up by Q3). For additional context client exposure currently low as analyst (not top ranked but in II ranked research house) is gatekeeping clients to an extent but leaving BB for unknown boutique could be harmful for branding/profile vs staying.

Any advice greatly appreciated, thanks in advance