EB (Moe/Laz) vs Elite Niche Boutique (M Klein/Dyal/Ducera)

I recognize that both are incredible opportunities and that I would learn a lot at either platform, but I’m trying to decide which one you would recommend signing.

Pros of the EB:

  • Stronger brand name
  • Potentially better exits

Pros of the smaller elite niche firm:

  • Greater responsibility and more direct exposure to senior bankers
  • Higher compensation
16 Comments
 

In most cases I think a normal EB (CVP, EVR, MOE, PJT, LAZ, PWP) outweighs the niche boutiques.

The only scenario where you’d choose a niche boutique is if they are fairly new, are absolutely crushing it, and it’s a very good opportunity to get on the ground floor. You will make materially more than any IB seat if it pays off. I know a few sector-specific boutiques that pay disgustingly high comp. For example, joining Qatalyst (tech) would have outweighed all IB and frankly nearly all PE roles in the junior to mid levels. The pay at Qatalyst along with a few other sector specific boutiques you’ve never heard of is almost unfair.

 
Most Helpful

I mean Dyals comp is on par with Q and ardea if not higher and I’m sure Klein and Ducera are up there

 

I personally know people who are FT analysts at Mklein and dyal. All I will say is what they market themselves to be is not what the experience you will get there... 

 

You would actually have to be retarded if you choose M Klein/Dyal/Ducera over Moe/Laz. You can receive just as much responsibilities as an analyst at both places. Same with senior exposure. Comp might be somewhat higher at M Klein/Dyal/Ducera but I know people here love to inflate the numbers. Lastly, Moe/Laz will always have a better brand name, and exits will always be better.

But the biggest problem for M Klein and Dyal, is that Michael and Gordon are getting old. Once they retire, deal flow is gonna get cooked.

 

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