So reading the news, I've seen that companies like GS are laying off people, and hiring numbers have been going down, and the overall economic outlook isn't as good as I would want as someone who is recruiting for SA 2027. For investment banking, what is the situation looking like, and how can I prepare myself if the economy gets worse, and banks start slowing down hiring even more?
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Banks lay off people every year. Typically these layoffs happen at the VP level to cut the fat. Recruiting follows economic cycles (slightly lagged). Almost every bank is up this year compared to last, with recruiting lagging I suspect it will pick up more next year again. Rate cuts expected, higher valuations on companies are all good signs for 2026.
I can say compared to last year, this years recruiting is much better. It’s just been a rough few years relative to 2021 recruiting, but then again that type of environment (with respect to laterals and hiring) could easily pop off next year
There is gonna be less spots because of the economy yes. Banks will probably be more conservative with hiring even though the M&A market will likely pick up in 2026. You need to know your technicals very well, network a lot, and be a likable person and you will get a great offer. You just gotta be the best, plain and simple.
Heard there’s more spots compared to last year
My group has about 20 interns incoming and I think about 20 FT incoming as well. I’m at a MM in a group with fairly normal turnover (better WLB, lower bonus)
Can I DM you? Would love to learn about your group and bank.
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