Better exit opps: JPM or CS or Barclays?
Class of 23 got some offers. Trying to decide what I should go with. Would love to hear your guys' opinions.
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JPM then Barclays then CS unless you want to bet on getting into CS Sponsors (which is risky cuz everyone wants that group)
Barclays M&A is done within the coverage groups, so that’s something to consider. Idk if it’s the same at JPM
correct about Barclays, JPM has a separate M&A group that handles things, but a few of the stronger coverage groups execute as well.
Also depends on what group you get into. I think these are the top groups at each firm, obviously there's other great groups but these are the ones I hear a lot about (and I know a couple people in some of these groups). If you have a good shot at getting into one of these groups that would change things imo.
JPM: healthcare and tech
Barclays: power & utilities, natural resources
CS: sponsors and industrials
This is slightly off for JPM and outdated for Barclays, just saying.
I think most coverage groups at Barclays do well since they all run their own M&A process. However, Power & utilities at Barc is still top of the street. You do not want to be pitching against them. I think Power and natres are still the crown jewels of Barclays.
I'm less familiar with JPM.
I know for a fact CS sponsors and industrials are the best groups there.
Barclays Industrials + HC has also become very strong for exits
JPM
(small gap)
Barclays
CS
JPM group placement can be wonky - high variation in outcomes based on friends who have gone through the process. If you networked with bankers in coverage at Barclays (see above for the top groups) and don't have strong ties at JPM, then I would consider it. Barc will likely win out on factors like culture, M&A experience, etc. as others have said above.
Barclays group placement is also wonky. Everyone wants coverage, so there's a risk of being placed in a product group especially if you don't have strong alumni in groups.
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