Genuinely concerned that things are moving so fast

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights:

Big Tech and Startups

• Current Environment: The startup environment is currently challenging. Glassdoor Senior Economist Daniel Zhao notes that it's worse than the 2008 financial crisis or the dot-com bubble burst in the early 2000s. This is due to factors like reduced venture capital funding and hiring freezes in major startups like Airbnb.
• Big Tech's Role: Big tech companies like Apple and Facebook rely heavily on acquiring startups to source talent and technology. For instance, Apple buys a company every two to three weeks on average, and Facebook's leadership in virtual reality is largely due to its acquisition of Oculus in 2014.
• Future Prospects: Despite the challenges, big tech companies are still booming and are expected to continue doing so. Working in big tech can open doors to various industries and roles beyond finance.

Impact on Finance

• Shifts in Finance: Since the 2008 financial crisis, finance has undergone significant changes. The line between commercial and investment banking has blurred, and private equity firms are more focused on building assets under management through diversified strategies rather than headline-grabbing deals. The hedge fund industry is also in decline.
• Tech's Ascendancy: Cities that are growing and adding jobs are often doing so because of a critical mass of tech companies or startups. Companies that embrace tech tend to thrive, while those that don't may struggle.

Starting a Startup

• Risk and Reward: Startups are often likened to lottery tickets. While some succeed spectacularly, many do not. For example, Slack pivoted from a failing MMORPG to a successful communications app, and even highly intelligent founders with impressive backgrounds can struggle to find success.
• Ecosystem: In startup ecosystems like San Francisco, the financial downside is somewhat limited. If a startup fails, it's usually possible to find another opportunity relatively quickly.

Personal Concerns

• Keeping Up: It's natural to feel overwhelmed by the rapid pace of technological advancements. Many people share this sentiment, and it's important to find ways to stay informed and adapt to changes.

Conclusion

• Big Tech: If you're considering a career in big tech, now is still a good time. These companies are expected to continue growing and offer diverse opportunities.
• Startups: Starting a startup is risky but can be rewarding. The current environment is challenging, but ecosystems like San Francisco offer some safety nets.
• Finance: The finance industry is evolving, with tech playing an increasingly important role. Embracing these changes can provide new opportunities.

For more detailed discussions and insights, you can explore the threads on Wall Street Oasis.

Sources: Tech As An Alternative to Finance, Tech As An Alternative to Finance, Big Tech 2.0, Take which offer: Corporate Finance at Big Tech (Google, Microsoft, Apple, Facebook), Valuation at non big-4, or boutique IB?, Is Finance worth it anymore?