I’ll be a summer analyst at a BB in 2026, but I’m very concerned about AI job displacement with the recent developments (ChatGPT Agent Mode, GPT5 chatter, IMO performance). Do you think AI will materially impact one’s ability to get a return offer for the Class of 2027?
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, AI is expected to significantly impact junior-level roles in finance, including investment banking and asset management, over the next few years. However, the extent of this impact depends on several factors:
AI's Role in Automation: Many lower-value tasks traditionally performed by analysts, such as data collection, basic modeling, and creating slide decks, are increasingly being automated. Tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Co-Pilot are already demonstrating capabilities that can outperform humans in terms of speed and efficiency for these tasks.
Skill Adaptation: Analysts and associates who can adapt by learning how to integrate AI tools into their workflows will likely have an edge. For example, understanding how to structure prompts or leverage AI for higher-value tasks (e.g., alternative data analysis, macro-level insights) could make you indispensable.
Cultural and Operational Lag: While AI adoption is accelerating, there are still "dinosaurs" in senior roles who are slow to adapt to new technologies. This lag could delay the full displacement of junior roles, giving you time to adjust and prove your value.
Return Offers: AI might not directly impact your ability to secure a return offer if you demonstrate adaptability, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to contribute beyond what AI can do. Clients and senior bankers still value human judgment, relationship-building, and nuanced decision-making.
Industry Trends: Some areas, like public equities and investment-grade public debt, are expected to face more disruption, while private markets and early-stage growth equity might remain more resilient. Positioning yourself in less AI-susceptible areas could be a strategic move.
In summary, while AI will likely reshape the industry, those who proactively adapt and leverage these tools will still find opportunities. Focus on developing skills that complement AI, such as strategic thinking, client interaction, and advanced technical knowledge, to stay competitive.
Sources: Work at top AM -- AI will virtually kill of entry-level roles in AM over the next 5yrs, ChatGPT: The AI Analyst Who Ate Wall Street, GPT-4 & Microsoft Co-Pilot, Work at top AM -- AI will virtually kill of entry-level roles in AM over the next 5yrs, Thoughts on AI and the future of the job market?
It could for sure but banks lag a lot on tech so even though the developments come fairly quickly (although still seemingly many years out to cause mass job loss even in fast moving sectors)
I think worrying is pointless since you have no real control over it. The only thing you can choose right now is to drop finance for something more protected against AI (Medicine, Social services, AI lab etc.) or stay the course in which case you no longer have input into how it plays out from an AI taking ur job perspective
Why can’t I post
No. Class of 2037 maybe
bro. there was one video on AI achieving a 70% accuracy score on a model. chill.
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