Guggenheim thoughts?

Any RECENT insight is appreciated (yes I have used the search function). I have a few ties there and am looking to jump my current ship. Comp, WLB, culture, how they fare against other EBs, etc. Would also be happy to leave NY and settle down if ppl have insights into CHI, HOU, SF, (more?). Thanks!

25 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about Guggenheim:

  1. Compensation: Guggenheim's compensation is competitive, especially for analysts and associates. As of September 2023, the average total compensation for a 1st Year Analyst is $168K, 2nd Year Analyst is $169K, and Associates average $260K. Interns also receive solid pay, with Summer Analysts earning $94K on average.

  2. Work-Life Balance (WLB): While specific details on WLB aren't explicitly mentioned, Guggenheim's reputation as a growing and competitive platform suggests that hours can be demanding, similar to other elite boutiques (EBs). However, smaller offices like Chicago or San Francisco might offer slightly better balance compared to NYC.

  3. Culture: Guggenheim is often described as having a fast-growing and ambitious culture. The NYC office is particularly noted for its focus on M&A work, handling deals ranging from $100M to over $1B. The Chicago office, while newer, has been building its presence with senior banker laterals and is committed to competing in the Midwest banking scene. The San Francisco office, also relatively new, is intriguing but lacks extensive feedback on culture and deal flow.

  4. Exit Opportunities: Guggenheim provides strong exit opportunities, particularly into private equity (PE). While specific placement data isn't detailed, the firm's focus on M&A and restructuring (RX) positions it well for PE exits, especially in middle-market and upper-middle-market funds.

  5. Comparison to Other EBs: Guggenheim is often compared to other EBs like Lazard, Moelis, and Evercore. While it may not yet have the same level of prestige as some of these firms, its rapid growth and strong deal flow make it a solid contender. Offices like NYC are more established, while newer locations like Chicago and SF are still building their reputations.

If you're considering leaving NYC, Chicago and San Francisco are promising options, with Chicago showing commitment to growth and SF being an interesting, albeit less established, team. Houston could also be worth exploring if you're interested in energy-focused banking.

Let me know if you'd like more specific insights!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/db-nyc-vs-guggenheim-nyc-vs-rbc-nyc-ma-vs-tph-pwp-houston-for-2019-sa-ft?customgpt=1, Guggenheim Partners Investment Banking, Lazard vs Moelis Chicago Offices, Guggenheim NYC: updated reputation, culture, exits, Guggenheim London

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

Solid place to be if you are not maximizing PE exits, high comp with good culture. 

 

Do you know if it’s easy to move across groups/locations? And is there comp differences across groups

 

Culture is good, I like my team, high quality mandates / experience, and comp is far above street - a little lower than CVP / 2-3 high-paying EBs but I think I work a lot less. 

I would say that we have very different SMD personas across different teams so you should make sure you have good vibes from whatever group you’re joining.

 
Funniest

Gugg is the greatest firm of all time. The GUGG RSSG Tactical SpecOps Oppurtunistic Restructuring team is basically winning every mandate right now. They recently won the mandate for the Knicks coaching gig and served as lead advisor LeBron James on the tactical recapitalization of his hairline.

 

The culture among juniors is great but not so much from above. Hours are brutal even by banking standard. But very competitive in terms of what mandates they win

AhoyMeBoy
 

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