BMO Questions

Is BMO NYC a solid bank, I see they are ranked in top 20 in Americas M&A. Would it also be easy to lateral from there? I am an incoming Analyst at BMO NYC. I picked it over Guggenheim Structured Products and Wells Fargo Charlotte. Did I make a mistake? And if I didn't lateral, can I break into MM PE?

24 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

  1. BMO NYC as a Solid Bank:
    BMO is a respectable player in the investment banking space, particularly in the U.S. Their NYC office handles a mix of debt, equity, and M&A deals, with a focus on sectors like Consumers and Industrials. While not at the level of top-tier bulge brackets or elite boutiques, BMO is still a solid choice, especially for someone starting their career. Their ranking in the top 20 for Americas M&A reflects their activity and credibility in the market.

  2. Lateral Opportunities:
    Lateral moves from BMO NYC are possible, but it may not be as seamless as moving from a top-tier BB or EB. However, if you perform well, network effectively, and build strong technical skills, you can position yourself for lateral opportunities. Keep in mind that lateraling is often more about your individual performance and networking than the bank's brand alone.

  3. Comparison to Guggenheim Structured Products and Wells Fargo Charlotte:

    • Guggenheim Structured Products: This would have been a more specialized role, likely with a narrower focus. If you're looking for broader exposure to M&A and generalist experience, BMO NYC is a better choice.
    • Wells Fargo Charlotte: While Wells Fargo has a strong presence in certain areas, Charlotte is not as prominent a financial hub as NYC. Choosing BMO NYC likely gives you better deal exposure and networking opportunities in the heart of the financial world.
  4. Breaking into MM PE:
    Breaking into middle-market private equity (MM PE) from BMO NYC is achievable. Many MM PE firms value candidates with solid deal experience, strong technical skills, and a good understanding of the industries they cover. To maximize your chances:

    • Gain as much deal experience as possible during your time at BMO.
    • Build a strong network within the PE space.
    • Prepare thoroughly for PE interviews, focusing on LBO modeling and case studies.

In summary, you made a solid choice with BMO NYC, especially if you're aiming for broader deal exposure and potential lateral or MM PE opportunities. Success will largely depend on your performance, networking, and preparation for future moves.

Sources: Vancouver Investment Banking?, Canada to NYC Lateral, Chicago BB and EB Ranking, 20 Most Frequently Asked Questions - London Edition, How Good is Binghamton University?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Agreed that anon def coping over WF Charlotte, but what are exits like out of BMO and is their levfin group any good (worth a lateral from US BB for different coverage group?)

 

I'm in their top coverage group, not lev fin. But their lev fin is really good, one of the top in league tables. idk if it is worth lateraling from a BB though.

 
Most Helpful

Personally, I don't understand why you're considering BMO. BMO is definitely great, but leveraged finance at UBS or DB are great groups that actually get attention from some MFs, while still being very doable for MM or UMM PE. I would say BMO mostly gets LMM PE looks; I haven't seen many people go to MM PE, only corp dev. DB or UBS gives you so much optionality, plus you could go to a top BB's levfin team as well.

 

Why are you even worried about this, you can't go back and change your decision. In response, however, BMO is Bottom Bucket.

 

I had an offer from gugg structured products that I turned down recently, and BMO NYC is somewhat comparable to WF CLT. WF CLT is very very different than WF NYC, and does not get taking seriously by PE firms

 

Exactly though as the guy said you can't change your decision, whats the point of this post? Either way BMO is not a great bank

 

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