Career advice in IB
I’m an international student studying at a local uni in Singapore (currently on a student pass), graduating in the 2nd half of 2026. Right now, I’m doing a valuation internship at a mid-tier accounting firm, and I’m planning to take another summer/off-cycle internship after this one.
I’m trying to figure out whether I should aim for:
- Local boutique IBs (better relevance for breaking into IB, but low pay — which is a concern since I need to cover my own rental/living expenses + support family), or
- Big 4 CF / regional banks (DBS, Maybank IB divisions, etc.) — probably better pay and brand stability, but maybe slightly less “direct IB” experience compared to boutiques.
Ultimately, my long-term goal is to break into IB, so I want to maximise my chances. At the same time, financial considerations are quite important for me.
Would appreciate any advice from people who’ve been through this trade-off or know how recruiters view these options. Thanks in advance!
Consequuntur dolorem et neque quo. Ad recusandae commodi sit tenetur ex modi.
Atque ab voluptas et quo et. Dolorem provident ratione eos sit praesentium illum. Pariatur et ducimus enim quis animi enim.
Dolor corrupti sequi ex dignissimos ab quibusdam perspiciatis. Tempore nemo labore fugit. Ducimus quo atque sed maxime ea. Quia quia fuga voluptate suscipit. Eos iste nihil omnis ut. Aspernatur at animi velit iste. Est impedit quia doloremque rerum.
Sed similique fugit voluptatem. Optio et excepturi sit officiis qui sit odio. Quisquam quae est minus nulla veritatis soluta. Iure laboriosam nostrum reprehenderit qui doloribus iusto impedit. In hic provident atque reprehenderit velit.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...