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Based on the most helpful WSO content, it appears that the promotion from Analyst to Associate (A2A) does indeed include a sign-on bonus. Specifically, for A2.5/A3's, there have been instances where a $100K "sign-on" bonus was mentioned. This suggests that there is a structured approach to sign-on bonuses for those being promoted from analyst to associate positions within certain firms, particularly at the bulge bracket (BB) banks. However, the exact amount can vary by firm and the specific circumstances of the promotion.

Sources: Associates, when are signing bonuses paid out?, What Is The Analyst to Associate Promotion Package?, Unpacking Corporate Banking at Citi/BAML?, Bonuses for Investment Banking 2017, 10K Sign-On Bonus Straight into 401k?

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

yes but there is a claw back if you dont stay for all the associate years. not sure if it's prorate after each year

worth it IMO. asc years go by fast 

Go all the way
 

Believe A2A letters go out in December or January (can’t remember tbh). Signing bonus sent shortly after you sign. Promo from ANL3 to ASC0 effective on July 1. ANA3 bonus paid out in August or September and includes backdated ASC base pay to 7/1. ASC0 stub paid in late March. Going through it feels like being thrown money and I’m pretty sure there’s psychology behind it.

 

lol this has gotta be about Baird, and he’s 100% right. They claw everything back - principal, accrued interest (I think which is like 7%) and taxes if you don’t stay 3 years past the time of promote. That includes if you are fired btw. Super restrictive. It’s not really a “bonus” so much as a “here’s a way to ensure you stay because you are now locked into a 3 year PIK loan

 

Everyone here is pointing out the clawback periods, and rightfully so.  Most analysts are burned out after 2 to 3 years of investment banking.  Sticking around for another whole year can be difficult, especially when you see 90% of your peers from your analyst class depart for either PE or less demanding jobs.  Many banks are combating this by offering a paid sabbatical (vacation) that is usually 30 days, in addition to the A2A signing bonus.

 

Folks - please share your thoughts if appropriate. I am going to come in as a lateral associate (analyst 3 or associate 1, whatever your firm gives titles to this level of experience) at a boutique M&A bank which will require me to relocate in the near future, what kind of sign-on bonus and potential a relocation package that I can expect and that I deem to be reasonable? Thank you all! 

 

Good luck and keep us updated! Also depends how big the move is and if you'd be forgoing a known A2A signon you could use that as support

 

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