IB vs long only AM out of undergrad
Hi all, I have the choice of working in coverage at a mid BB or at a long only asset manager ($2b-$8b AUM in a single strategy) out of undergrad. I'm having a pretty hard time with this decision, so would really appreciate any input.
My family is financially secure. Because of this, I am not trying to maximize career earnings and candidly just care more about having an enjoyable life and a career that supports that.
Reasons to pick AM:
- WLB will be very good compared to IB. I will probably work 40-60hr weeks initially, with any hours past ~50 being of my own volition (no one will keep me past 5). There is no time sensitive work, so I will enjoy a very stable schedule
- Work will be interesting. Looking at stocks is fun, and lacks all the process bs you have to do in banking.
- Comp is a ~25% haircut to what I'd get in banking, which I think is market / slightly better than market and a good deal given the better WLB
Reason to pick IB / not pick AM:
- I would have no peers my age at the AM since it's a small shop that doesn't hire juniors. In IB, I would have a lot of peers my age. I don't care a ton about the size of my professional network, but honestly I am worried about not having friends through work. I have some friends in NYC, but not a ton, so I'm wondering if not having the social experience of the big analyst class would be lonely / isolating.
- Lifestyle aside, IB is probably a career optimizing move. It would preserve a lot more optionality across industries, and I could likely get into a better AM shop after 2 years in IB. I like the asset manager, but it is small, has no name recognition, and recent returns are underwhelming.
Honestly, the biggest factor in my decision is whether I would rather have more free time and fewer friends, or more friends and less free time. Any thoughts are welcome. Thank you!
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