AM vs IB - Benefits of having competitive buy-side role vs Lucrative IBD salaries

Hi everyone, 

I'm a university graduate with offers for both IBD & top-tier AM in London (Blackrock, Fidelity, Wellington, T-Rowe) and wondering how to justify such a stark comp difference. I was always under the impression securing a FO role on the buy-side was potentially even more competitive than sell-side - I'm wondering what practically we gain from this? 

Of course, WLB is HUGE and I get how important that is. Broader question: what other aspects am I missing here. 

14 Comments
 

If I'm not wrong, base comp in top-tier AM is very comparable to IBD? Don't think you'd miss out on much skill development by going to AM instead of IBD apart from bonuses

 

I guess it depends how firms respond to the latest comp increases:) what are your thoughts on the appeal of AM > IB, aside from WLB (if you have any)?

 

IMO - more job fulfillment, less about pleasing clients and more about actual decisions, opportunity to develop deeper skills in specific areas (depending on your role)

 

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