A1 Lateral: Guggenheim or Euro BB? (CS/Barclays)
What's up everyone,
I'm a frequent lurker here on WSO, and after some serious networking grind I was able to get two offers to start as an Analyst 1 after this summer. I graduate from UG this spring.
I am not someone who plans to pursue PE and I see myself staying in banking to the VP level at minimum if possible. I am also considering pursuing an M7/T15 MBA at some point.
Guggenheim
Pros: -Bonus will probably be higher assuming mid/top bucket -Flatter structure, more exposure to entire process on deals -Seems to be growing rapidly and is regarded as an EB in some cases (not 100% sure about this one it'd be awesome if someone with more info could clarify)
Cons: -I've heard the hours are really bad (in a way this isn't too important to me, I know at either bank I won't have a life) -Don't get the "BB" experience -Less exits (?) - don't know much about this either, so please no MS if I'm terribly wrong -Culture; people didn't seem as relaxed/able to breathe as the other banks
Bulge Bracket
Pros: -I'd like to work in Europe at some point in my career -Formal BB training program -Brand name recognition -Great culture, everyone was friendly and down to earth
Cons: -Pay -Less exposure to full deal process/smaller fish in bigger pond -Not sure how the growth opportunities are within the bank (a2a, a2vp, etc.)
I'd appreciate if anyone could help me weigh these options. I can't share what groups I have offers in as that might make it too easy to pinpoint my identity. That being said, I'd like opinions on the banks as a whole anyways, group specifics are less important as I don't really wanna do PE and would rather make a career. Thank you all!
My gut reaction says go with the BB based on what you provided. You don't know if you'll even like IB - so having a good brand name, a better work / life balance and culture, opportunity to transfer to a European team, and still competitive pay outweigh the pros you outlined for Guggenheim by a long shot.
It's tough to give you a straight answer without knowing the group placement though.
That's what I'm feeling too. I have a week to sign so I think I'll be making a decision soon. Leaning BB. I truly am torn haha. It's definitely a safer bet to go with the BB, but potentially more lucrative if successful at Gugg.
Depends on the group you're joining at Guggenheim. There are groups at Guggenheim that are top notch, and definitely compete with BBs.
BBs are definitely the safe pick because of the name. Since you want to be a career banker, I think BB is the right choice, but I have seen many people on LinkedIn lateral into GUG from BBs, and vice versa.
Both are top 3 groups at the respective banks.
Go with the BB.
Congrats on the offers! I can't personally speak to any of these banks but I was just curious on your position. Are you a UG senior and these are all FT roles?
Regardless, good luck with your choice!
Thanks! I'm a senior graduating this semester and the roles are FT.
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