Anyone have insight's into Santander NYC in 2025

Based on the most helpful WSO content, Santander in NYC is not typically considered a top-tier investment bank compared to bulge brackets or elite boutiques. However, it has been making moves to strengthen its presence, particularly by hiring dozens of Credit Suisse bankers, as reported by Bloomberg. This indicates a push to bolster its capabilities and reputation in the investment banking space.

Strongest Groups at Santander:

1. Credit and Debt Capital Markets (DCM): Santander is traditionally strong in balance sheet-oriented groups like DCM. This aligns with its European banking roots and focus on lending and financing.
2. Energy and Infrastructure: Historically, Santander has had a strong focus on energy and infrastructure financing, leveraging its expertise in these sectors.
3. Leveraged Finance (LevFin): While not as prominent as some competitors, LevFin is another area where Santander has been active, particularly in supporting mid-market deals.

Analyst Experience:

• Professional Growth: Santander is not as well-known for its M&A advisory as some of the larger banks, but analysts can still gain solid experience in financing-heavy roles. The bank's focus on credit and lending provides a unique skill set for those interested in these areas.
• Culture: The culture at Santander is often described as more European, with a focus on work-life balance compared to some of the more intense U.S. banks. However, this can vary by group and office.
• Exit Opportunities: While not as strong as bulge brackets or elite boutiques, having Santander on your resume can still open doors, especially if you gain experience in a strong group like DCM or Energy.

If you're considering Santander, it’s worth evaluating whether the group aligns with your long-term career goals, especially if you're aiming for specific exit opportunities like private equity or hedge funds.

Sources: Thoughts on Barclays in 2020, Wells Fargo Groups, Best Coverage Groups at Barclays & Group Networking, What are the best groups for JPM?