If it's between HSBC in HK and Barclays in London for IBD SA which would you choose and why?
Also considering long term (4-5 years) and exit opportunity back to Asia. Any insight appreciated!
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HSBC HK
can you please explain why
Barclays IBD, even if in LDN, is a significantly better firm. The brand name is 100 times better and as long as you know languages there should be no reason why you would not be able to exit to Asia
IBD Barclays London better.
An insider mentioned that the deals done by HSBC HK is very loan driven. I.e. company go to HSBC only if HSBC lends to them, and not related to any strong performance
There is literally no comparison, Barclays is infinitely better.
The one small caveat is that HSBC will have higher mobility to Hong Kong, but Barclays’ brand name is just on another league.
Pls don't take comments above as the categorical truth. Each and every situation is unique and should be considered with nuance. There are many factors in play e.g. Which firm have you gotten along with the people in better? Do you prefer lifestyle/culture in HK or UK? Which team/sector will you be assigned to?
It's not as clear cut as BB > all. From a career perspective, HSBC is doing well in HK, better than some of the BBs. Barclays has been doing poorly in HK - rep is not as great as what people are implying. Furthermore if your long term goal is China, recruiters/investment firms very much prefer analysts who have relevant China experience and did IB in HK already. You can also lateral to a BB in HK from HSBC if you really want to later on. I would say the above factors like lifestyle, team, geographic preference, long term goals matter more than the marginal difference in prestige.
source: worked BB IBD in both HK and UK
Would advise you to consult or reach out to other HK based ibankers or PE for advice if that is your long term goal
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